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be first past the post

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be first past the post

To be the first person to reach a particular goal. Primarily heard in UK, Australia. I'm so proud of my daughter—she was first past the post in this morning's race.

See also: first, past, post

be first past the post

  (British & Australian)

if someone is first past the post in a competition, they are the first to achieve something The Russian team were first past the post in the race to complete the expedition.

See also: first, past, post