The phrase "hadst down pat" is spelled using the archaic second person singular past tense form of "have" which is "hadst" and the idiomatic expression "down pat", meaning mastered or fully understood. The phonetic transcription of "hadst" is /hædst/ and the pronunciation of "down pat" is /daʊn pæt/. Together, the phrase is pronounced as /hædst daʊn pæt/ and refers to a level of expertise or proficiency in a particular skill or subject.
The phrase "hadst down pat" is rooted in old English words and has evolved over time to its current form. "Hadst" is the second-person singular past tense of the verb "have." Meanwhile, when something is "down pat," it means that one has mastered or fully acquired a particular skill or knowledge to the extent that they can perform it flawlessly or recall it effortlessly.
When combined, "hadst down pat" traditionally conveys the idea of having completely and thoroughly possessed an ability or information in the past. It implies that the person previously had successfully learned and internalized the subject matter to the point of expertise or memorization.
This expression often suggests a completion of the learning process and indicates a high level of confidence and proficiency. It implies that the individual can execute the action or recall the knowledge automatically and without hesitation.
The phrase is commonly used to describe someone who has practiced or studied extensively and is now exceptionally skilled or knowledgeable about a specific topic. It may also indicate someone who has had repeated exposure to a subject so that they have become highly familiar with it.
Overall, "hadst down pat" denotes a state of mastery, where an individual has acquired complete command over a skill or knowledge through prior learning and practice.