English Explanatory Dictionary

cut the mustard

English dictionary entry

Meanings

verb
  1. To achieve the expected standard; to be effective or good enough; to suffice.

Pronunciation

/kʌt ðə ˈmʌstəd/ /kʌt ðə ˈmʌstəɹd/ En-au-cut the mustard.ogg

Word forms

cut the mustard cuts the mustard cutting the mustard

Etymology

From cut (“to exhibit (a quality)”) + the + mustard (“(originally US slang) something adding spice or zest to a situation; something setting the standard”).

Synonyms

be up to par be up to scratch be up to snuff cut it hack it make the cut make the grade measure up pass muster
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