"Beat someone to punch" is a common phrase that means to act or react faster than someone else. Synonyms for this phrase include "get the jump on," "outmaneuver," "outpace," "outstrip," "overtake," "surpass," "get ahead of," "precede," and "take the lead." These synonyms can be used interchangeably with "beat someone to punch" depending on the context in which they are used. No matter which phrase is used, the meaning remains the same: to act quickly and decisively in order to gain an advantage or stay ahead of others.