cut the mustard

Idioms  

1. Perform satisfactorily, as in We need a better catcher; this one just doesn't cut the mustard. The origin of this expression is disputed. Some believe it alludes to mustard in the sense of the best or main attraction (owing to its spicing up food), whereas others believe it is a corruption of pass muster. Still others hold that it concerns the preparation of mustard, which involves adding vinegar to mustard seed to “cut” (reduce) its bitterness. The expression is often in negative form, as in the example. [Slang; c. 1900]

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Example Sentences

The unpopular move failed to cut the mustard with fans — even in the highest branches of state government.

From Seattle Times • Feb. 29, 2024

Step forward Ian Paisley to say, colourfully as usual: "My gut instinct is this isn't going to cut the mustard."

From BBC • Dec. 26, 2023

So, if you find that boycotting the basket doesn’t cut the mustard, don’t go.

From Slate • May 13, 2019

For his or any other NFL team, that’ll more than cut the mustard, but it won’t be quite enough to get the ketchup.

From Washington Post • Nov. 16, 2018

She told him, "Reindeer flying from house to house in a population of 6 billion people in 6 habitable continents just doesn't cut the mustard."

From Tokyo to Tijuana: Gabriele Departing America by Sills, Steven (Steven David Justin)

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