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

See Examples For:

cut the mustard

If you are a hot-dog driver, and if you can cut the mustard, you could be behind the wheel of the Wienermobile.

From Slate ● Jan. 12, 2024

That doesn’t cut the mustard if you’re trying to run a business.

From Seattle Times ● Nov. 13, 2021

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

These days it’s true, a glowing assessment of the training facilities appears to cut the mustard.

From The Guardian ● Aug. 6, 2018

She cut the mustard," he said, "all right.

From Roads of Destiny by O. Henry

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