get the better of

get the better of or get the best of  {v. phr.}

1. To win over, beat; defeat.

Our team got the best of the visitors in the last quarter.

George got the better of Robert in a game of checkers.

When the opposing player fouled John, John let his anger get the better of his good sense and hit the boy back.

Dave wanted to study till midnight, but sleepiness got the best of him.

Compare: RUN AWAY WITH (1).

2. or have the best of or have the better of

To win or be ahead in (something); gain most from (something.)

Bill traded an old bicycle tire for a horn; he got the best of that deal.

Our team had the best of it today, but they may lose the game tomorrow.

The champion had all the better of it in the last part of the fight.

Contrast: GET THE WORST OF.