English idiom

cut the mustard

Register · Neutral CEFR B2

Post

Figurative meaning

to perform well enough for a particular need or expectation

Word picture

Adequacy is pictured as succeeding at the odd task of cutting mustard.

Example

“The prototype looked impressive, but it didn't cut the mustard in real-world tests.”

Dictionary details

Component words

mustard

Tags

success
work

Expressions connected by reviewed component words or topic tags.

ahead of the game

to stay better prepared than others by anticipating future needs

blaze a trail

to pioneer an approach that opens the way for later people

deliver the goods

to do what is expected or promised; to produce good results

fall into place

to become clear or to work out well after a period of confusion

follow in someone's footsteps

to copy another person's actions or pursue a similar path, especially in work or achievement

make a go of

to turn an undertaking into a lasting success

Source methodology

Meanings, register, CEFR, and examples come from the reviewed dictionary record. Expression notes may describe a reviewed present-day word picture or a background note; they are not presented as verified etymology.

External links

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