How Do You Spell CUTS THE MUSTARD?

Pronunciation: [kˈʌts ðə mˈʌstəd] (IPA)

The idiomatic phrase "cuts the mustard" means that something meets or exceeds expectations. The spelling of "mustard" may seem odd, but it actually follows the rules of English phonetics. The word is pronounced /ˈmʌstəd/ with the emphasis on the first syllable. The vowel sound in the first syllable is a short u or /ʌ/, which is spelled with the letter u. The second syllable has a weak schwa sound, spelled with the letter a. So, "cuts the mustard" is spelled phonetically according to the sounds of English.

CUTS THE MUSTARD Meaning and Definition

  1. "Cuts the mustard" is an idiomatic expression used to describe someone or something that meets or exceeds the required standard of performance, ability, or quality. The phrase is primarily used in colloquial English and is often employed in informal conversations, stories, or reviews.

    When an individual or an object "cuts the mustard," it means they demonstrate sufficient competency or effectiveness in a particular situation. The phrase originated from the practice of judging the quality of prepared mustard sauce. In the past, cooks would often dilute mustard with fillers to reduce costs, affecting its pungency and flavor. Therefore, only the high-quality mustard that precisely "cut" through the dilution was deemed worthy or sufficient.

    The expression is typically used in a positive context to highlight someone's competence, success, or suitability for a certain role or task. For example, if a job applicant "cuts the mustard," they possess the necessary skills and qualifications to perform the job effectively. Similarly, if a product or service "cuts the mustard," it meets the expected standards and fulfills its intended purpose.

    Overall, "cuts the mustard" is a figurative phrase that signifies meeting or surpassing the required standards or expectations, often implying the ability to perform admirably or achieve satisfactory results.

Common Misspellings for CUTS THE MUSTARD

  • cuts the mustapd
  • cuts the mustasd
  • cuts the mustart
  • cuts the mustarl
  • cutsthemustard
  • c uts the mustard
  • cu ts the mustard
  • cut s the mustard
  • cuts t he mustard
  • cuts th e mustard
  • cuts the m ustard
  • cuts the mu stard
  • cuts the mus tard
  • cuts the must ard
  • cuts the musta rd
  • cuts the mustar d