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

If the companies reporting this week can prove they have what it takes to thrive in an AI driven world, investors might be incentivized to buy in, especially as software valuations drop.

From Barron's

In the end, it didn’t matter, because it’s hockey, and sometimes, what it takes is a little more belief.

From The Wall Street Journal

“There’s just no exact science. For me, and for all of us, you’re just believing in the player, knowing that he knows what it takes to be ready for a season and he takes care of himself, so I think for me, it’s an easy way to think and wrap my head around, just kind of believing in him, trusting him.”

From Los Angeles Times

As I’m seemingly force-fed curling every time I turn on the Winter Olympics, I have no orientation as to what it takes to be a good curler.

From Los Angeles Times

And then we explain why it’s going to be helpful and what it takes in terms of structural reforms.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• boldness
• bravery
• courage
• determination
• endurance
• fearlessness
• firmness
• grit
• mettle
• moxie
• nerve
• patience
• perseverance
• pluck
• spunk
• stamina
• staying power
• tenacity
• valor