get ahead

1.  Succeed or make progress, especially in one's career or in society. For example, She put in many hours of overtime in order to get ahead. [c. 1800]
2.  Save a little money, as in After we settle the hospital bill, we hope to get ahead enough to buy a new car.
3.  get ahead of. Move in front of, as in I got ahead of her in line.
4.  get ahead of. Outdo, surpass, as in We were determined to get ahead of the competition. Also see ahead of the game.

Definition: excel, succeed
Antonyms: fail, fall behind

The verb has 2 meanings:

Meaning #1: obtain advantages, such as points, etc.
  Synonyms: gain, advance, win, pull ahead, make headway, gain ground

Meaning #2: grow stronger
  Synonyms: boom, prosper, thrive, flourish, expand