How Do You Spell FLYING COLORS?

Pronunciation: [flˈa͡ɪɪŋ kˈʌləz] (IPA)

The phrase "flying colors" is commonly used to describe a successful outcome. The word "flying" is spelled /flaɪɪŋ/, with the first syllable pronounced like "fly," and the second syllable pronounced like "ring" without the "r." The word "colors" is spelled /kʌləz/, with the first syllable pronounced like "cul" and the second syllable pronounced like "ers," but with the "r" sound barely present. Together, the phonetic transcription would be /flaɪɪŋ kʌləz/.

Meaning and Definition
Common Misspellings
Etymology
Idioms
Similar spelling words
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FLYING COLORS Meaning and Definition

  1. "Flying colors" is an idiomatic phrase that is commonly used to describe a situation where someone has achieved outstanding success or triumphed over a challenge with great ease. The phrase is often used to indicate an exceptional level of accomplishment, usually resulting from an examination, test, or challenge. When someone passes an exam "with flying colors,” it implies that the individual has excelled above the expected or average performance and has achieved a remarkable outcome.

    This expression originates from nautical terms, specifically the flying of flags to indicate a victorious entrance to a port. In naval warfare, a ship that successfully returned from a battle would often sail into harbor with its flags flying proudly to showcase its accomplishment. This visual display symbolized triumph and success. Over time, the phrase "flying colors" has transitioned into a metaphorical expression, detached from its literal nautical origins.

    The phrase "flying colors" carries a connotation of exceptional proficiency, success, and excellence. It implies that the individual has effortlessly surpassed the desired requirements or expectations and emerged with resounding achievements. Whether it be in academic, professional, or personal spheres, achieving something "with flying colors" suggests remarkable distinction and overwhelming victory.

Common Misspellings for FLYING COLORS

  • dlying colors
  • clying colors
  • vlying colors
  • glying colors
  • tlying colors
  • rlying colors
  • fkying colors
  • fpying colors
  • foying colors
  • flting colors
  • flging colors
  • flhing colors
  • fluing colors
  • fl7ing colors
  • fl6ing colors
  • flyung colors
  • flyjng colors
  • flykng colors
  • flyong colors
  • flying coolors

Etymology of FLYING COLORS

The phrase "flying colors" originated during naval battles. It dates back to the 17th century when ships would bear their national flags, or colors, when engaging in combat. If a ship emerged from battle with its flags still flying high, it was a sign of victory and success. Over time, the phrase "flying colors" came to encompass any achievement or success, whether in battle or other endeavors.

Idioms with the word FLYING COLORS

  • with flying colors The idiom "with flying colors" refers to accomplishing something with great success or distinction. It implies achieving a result, often in a challenging situation, with outstanding performance, skill, or achievement.
  • pass (something) with flying colors The idiom "pass (something) with flying colors" means to easily succeed or excel in a task, examination, or competition. It implies achieving a result that exceeds expectations or receiving excellent scores or grades.
  • come through (something) with flying colors The idiom "come through (something) with flying colors" means to successfully complete or overcome a difficult challenge, task, or test in an exceptional manner, often surpassing expectations. It implies achieving a high level of success or excellence.
  • come through sth (with flying colors) To pass a test, examination, or challenge with great success or excellence.
  • with flying colors, pass with To pass with flying colors means to pass with great success or distinction, often used when describing someone who has achieved a high grade or excelled in a test or task.

Similar spelling words for FLYING COLORS