What does “With flying colours (colors)” mean?
"With flying colours" means to complete something successfully and with great achievement or skill.
What context can I use the in?
Example
She passed her exams with flying colours.
Example
He finished the race with flying colors and set a new record.
Example
The team won the championship with flying colours
Is “With flying colours (colors)” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“With flying colours (colors)” 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 “With flying colours (colors)” effectively in context?
You can use "With flying colours" to describe someone's successful completion of a task or achievement. It emphasizes that the person not only succeeded but did so with exceptional skill or achievement. For example, if a friend passes their exams with outstanding grades, you might say, 'Congratulations! You passed with "flying colours"!'
- 1Education
She passed her exams with flying colours.
- 2Sports
He finished the race with flying colors and set a new record.
- 3Competition
The team won the championship with flying colours.
Similar phrases to “With flying colours (colors)”:
To excel at something or achieve a perfect score
Example
He aced the exam and received the highest grade.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “With flying colours (colors)” come from?
The origin of the phrase "With flying colours" is unknown.
Is “With flying colours (colors)” common in everyday conversation?
"With flying colours" is a common expression in everyday conversation. It is often used to praise someone's achievements or to describe successful outcomes.
What tone does “With flying colours (colors)” have?
"With flying colours" conveys a tone of admiration and celebration. It is used to highlight exceptional success and skill.
Can “With flying colours (colors)” be used in informal and formal settings?
"With flying colours" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a versatile expression that can be used in various contexts, such as academic, professional, or personal achievements.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
"With flying colours" is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'She passed the test with "flying colours".' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'You did it with "flying colours"!' to express admiration for someone's accomplishment.
