The phrase "make grade" is commonly used to refer to the act of achieving a certain level of success or meeting specific performance standards. The phonetic transcription for this phrase is /meɪk greɪd/. The "make" sound is pronounced as "meyk" with a long "e" sound, while the "grade" sound is pronounced as "greyd" with a long "a" sound. The spelling of this phrase follows standard English conventions for the pronunciation of these words.
"Make grade" is a colloquial phrase that originated from the American English idiom. It refers to the act of successfully meeting or fulfilling a particular standard, expectation, requirement, or achieving a desired level of performance, primarily in an academic or professional context. When someone is able to "make grade," it implies that they are able to accomplish the necessary tasks or actions to reach a satisfactory or commendable level of achievement.
The term is predominantly associated with education and academic pursuits, commonly used when students are able to meet the necessary requirements or score well enough in examinations or tests to move up to the next grade or level. It can also be used in professional contexts, particularly when individuals are able to perform effectively or meet the standards necessary for progression in their careers.
"Make grade" emphasizes the notion of meeting or surpassing expectations, often with a focus on maintaining a sufficient level of performance. The phrase implies that the person has demonstrated their ability to perform at a satisfactory level, proving their expertise, skills, or knowledge in a particular subject or field.
Overall, "make grade" signifies the successful achievement of specified standards or requirements, particularly in the realm of education or employment, suggesting that an individual has fulfilled the necessary criteria or demonstrated proficiency in order to progress or succeed in their chosen endeavors.
The phrase "make grade" does not have a specific etymology, as it is a combination of the words "make" and "grade" with their respective meanings. However, "make" derives from the Old English word "macian", which means "to construct" or "to form". "Grade", on the other hand, comes from the Latin word "gradus", meaning "step" or "degree".
In the context of education or grading systems, "make grade" typically refers to achieving a certain level of performance or meeting a required standard.