flying colors

American  

plural noun

1. flags or ensigns flown on a ship.

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idioms

1. with flying colors, with an overwhelming victory, triumph, or success.

   He passed the test with flying colors.

Etymology

Origin of flying colors

First recorded in 1600–10

Example Sentences

And this time around, recent form suggests the Americans should pass the test with flying colors.

From The Wall Street Journal

The week was punctuated by tests, all of which the ship passed with flying colors.

From The Wall Street Journal

Trailing at halftime for the first time all season, Palisades faced its toughest test so far and passed with flying colors to stay unbeaten Friday night in San Pedro.

From Los Angeles Times

For the Palisades boys’ and girls’ lacrosse teams, they’ve made it through with flying colors.

From Los Angeles Times

When it came to the "One Hand Clapping" sessions, McCartney wanted to test Wings’ roadworthiness, an exam that the post-Beatles outfit passed with flying colors.

From Salon