rise to the occasion

Idioms

Show unexpected skill in dealing with a difficulty that arises, as in The leading man broke his leg in the first act but his understudy rose to the occasion and was rewarded with excellent reviews. [Mid-1800s]

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.

"It is the ultimate test for me in Europe. This will be I think the hardest game we could have played, so we have to rise to the occasion and be at our very best."

From Barron's • Jan. 27, 2026

Once you’ve got something warm in the bowl, reach for greens that can rise to the occasion.

From Salon • Dec. 16, 2025

Against North Macedonia, his players showed how emphatically they can rise to the occasion.

From BBC • Nov. 19, 2025

"The enthusiasm surrounding the tournament has been incredible, with support growing across the country. We know Bristol will be no different, and the girls are relishing the opportunity to rise to the occasion."

From BBC • Sep. 12, 2025

“So now, despite the fear I know you are all feeling, I must ask you all to rise to the occasion for the sake of the Academy,” Callaway went on, talking over the nervous murmuring.

From "Glitch" by Laura Martin

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023