chomping at the bit
Meaning
To be impatient and eager to start or do something; barely able to wait.
Origin
From horse riding: a restless horse chews (chomps) on the bit in its mouth while eager to move. The idiom developed as a metaphor for human impatience to begin.
Notes
Conveys eager impatience—usually positive excitement, sometimes mild frustration. Common in both everyday and business contexts.
Examples
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The interns are chomping at the bit to start working on the new product launch.
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After months of rehab, she was chomping at the bit to get back on the soccer field.
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Investors are chomping at the bit for more details about the company’s expansion plans.
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I’ve been chomping at the bit all week to tell you the good news.
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The kids were chomping at the bit to open their presents on Christmas morning.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Usually used as “be chomping at the bit (to + verb)” or “chomping at the bit for + noun.” Often describes people/groups. Common variant: “champing at the bit” (older/arguably original).
Synonyms
- be eager
- be itching to (do something)
- be raring to go
- be keen to (do something)
- be restless to (do something)
Antonyms
- be content to wait
- be patient
- take one's time