what it takes

Idioms  

1. The necessary expertise or qualities, as in She's got what it takes to make a good doctor, or Inherited wealth is what it takes to maintain that lifestyle. This idiom uses what in the sense of “that which” and take in the sense of “require.” [1920]

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

what it takes

Chin’s conversations with cellist Yo-Yo Ma, surfer Kelly Slater, conflict photographer Lynsey Addario, climber Alex Honnold and others explore what it takes to forge a distinct path.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 30, 2026

The Food Chain examines the business, science and cultural significance of food, and what it takes to put food on your plate.

From BBC ● Sep. 21, 2026

“He was able to convince markets he was going to do what it takes to bring inflation down.”

From MarketWatch ● Sep. 19, 2026

At least, said Manzanares, a retired lawyer, L.A. found out what it takes to get a response from the two mayoral candidates.

From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 12, 2026

"You think you got what it takes? You think you wanna be a King? You ain't got nothing!"

From "How It Went Down" by Kekla Magoon

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Related Words

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• staying power
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