have the makings of

Idioms  

1. Have the abilities or qualities needed to become something, as in She has the makings of a fine teacher, or, as Shakespeare put it in Henry VIII (4:1): “She had all the royal makings of a Queen.” [Late 1500s]

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

have the makings of

Serve it with warm corn tortillas, diced onion, cilantro and a flavorful salsa, and you have the makings of an outdoor taco night that largely takes care of itself.

From Salon ● Jul. 12, 2026

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent declined to confirm any agreement but said that "we perhaps have the makings of a deal here."

From Barron's ● May 28, 2026

“We perhaps have the makings of a deal here,” Bessent said from the White House, noting both sides have been swapping proposals.

From The Wall Street Journal ● May 28, 2026

Mix in a banged-up Geno Smith under center and an injured Kenny Walker likely on the sideline, and you have the makings of an unhappy holiday for the 12s.

From Seattle Times ● Nov. 22, 2023

But before I could say anything, Coach Mustilli added, “I know a star when I see one, Ibti, and you have the makings of a great saber fencer.”

From "Proud" by Ibtihaj Muhammad