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proof of the pudding

American  
[proof uhv thuh pood-ing] / ˈpruf ʌv ðə ˈpʊd ɪŋ /

noun

  1. the true value or quality of something, as seen when it is experienced, tried, or put to use.

    The proof of the pudding for a business is what customers say about it.


Etymology

Origin of proof of the pudding

First recorded in 1600–20; from the proverb “The proof (i.e., test) of the pudding is in the eating”

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

But, she adds, “the proof of the pudding is in the eating.”

From Scientific American • Mar. 11, 2022

Of course, the proof of the pudding is always in the eating, and despite years of testing, there will no doubt be teething problems when it comes to using this technology in farms.

From The Verge • Jan. 4, 2022

“The proof of the pudding will be obviously in their actions rather than their rhetoric.”

From Reuters • Aug. 16, 2021

“But the proof of the pudding is in the eating, and we will see whether Biden will deliver real change if elected.”

From New York Times • Oct. 16, 2020

They will tell you that the proof of the pudding is in the eating; and they are right.

From Revolutionist's Handbook and Pocket Companion by Shaw, Bernard

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