What does “Pass muster” mean?
"Pass muster" means to meet the required standards or expectations.
What context can I use the in?
Example
His work didn't pass muster and he was let go from the company.
Example
The new product design needs to pass muster before it can be released.
Example
The team's performance didn't pass muster and they lost the game
Is “Pass muster” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Pass muster” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “Pass muster” effectively in context?
You can use "Pass Muster" to describe something that meets the required standards or expectations. It implies that something has been thoroughly examined and found to be satisfactory. For example, if a friend asks you about a job interview, you might say, 'I think it went well. I hope I "pass muster" and get the job.'
- 1Job Interview
After preparing extensively, she felt confident that her resume would pass muster with the hiring manager.
- 2Product Development
The prototype needs to pass muster in terms of quality and functionality before it can be mass-produced.
- 3Sports Competition
The team's performance didn't pass muster and they lost the game.
Similar phrases to “Pass muster”:
Measure up
To meet the necessary standards or expectations
Example
He was confident that his performance would measure up to the judges' expectations.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Pass muster” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Pass Muster" is uncertain. It is believed to have originated in the military, where soldiers would undergo inspections to ensure they met the necessary standards. If a soldier 'passed muster,' it meant they met the requirements and were deemed fit for service.
Is “Pass muster” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Pass Muster" is a commonly used expression in everyday conversation. People often use it to describe whether something meets the required standards or expectations.
What tone does “Pass muster” have?
"Pass Muster" conveys a tone of evaluation and judgment. It suggests that something has undergone scrutiny and has been found to be satisfactory or not.
Can “Pass muster” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Pass Muster" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a versatile expression that can be used in various contexts, such as job interviews, product development, or sports competitions. It is suitable for both casual conversations and professional situations.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'The report needs to pass muster before it can be submitted.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'I hope I "pass muster"' to express the desire to meet the required standards.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- meet the requirements
- satisfy the criteria
- meet the standard
- fulfill expectations
- pass inspection
Antonyms
- fall short
- fail to meet expectations
- miss the mark
- not make the cut
- not pass inspection
