jump at the chance

Meaning: To accept an opportunity eagerly and at once.

Example: “When they offered her the transfer to Rome, she jumped at the chance.”

Origin: To "jump at" something is to seize it as quickly as an animal snapping at food. The phrase is recorded from the 18th century.

Equivalents in other languages

Thai: น้ำขึ้นให้รีบตัก Literally: When the water rises, hurry to scoop it
Hebrew: קופצים על המציאה (Kofsim al hamtsi'a) Literally: To jump on the bargain
Spanish: cazar al vuelo Literally: To hunt in flight

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