kick the tires

Register · Informal Informal — used in casual, everyday conversation among friends and family. Avoid in formal writing or professional settings. CEFR B1

Post

Figurative meaning

to inspect or test something before committing to it

Why this phrase?

From used-car buying: a quick physical check of the vehicle.

Example

“Several funds kicked the tires before the Series A closed.”

Dictionary details

Component words

kick

Tags

Expressions connected by reviewed component words or topic tags.

kick off Informal · CEFR B1

to begin an event, meeting, or project

kick the habit Informal · CEFR B2

to stop a persistent behavior, especially an addictive one

kick up a fuss Informal · CEFR B2

to react with a noisy, angry complaint, often over a minor issue

dry run Neutral · CEFR B1

a full practice session of a process, done for real except in name

cover all bases Neutral · CEFR B2

to consider and prepare for every important part, possibility, or problem so nothing is missed

make the grade Informal · CEFR B2

to reach the standard required for success or acceptance

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.

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