NOT UP TO SNUFF Meaning and
Definition
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"Not up to snuff" is an idiomatic expression that is often used informally in everyday language. It refers to something or someone that is deemed inadequate, below the expected standard, or lacking in quality, performance, or competence. The phrase has its origins in the world of tobacco, specifically snuff, which is a powdered tobacco that is inhaled. In the past, snuff was associated with sophistication and high social status. Consequently, the expression "up to snuff" emerged to describe something that met or exceeded the highest standards.
When the negative form "not up to snuff" is used, it implies that the subject being referred to falls short of meeting these expectations. It can be applied to diverse contexts, such as a person's abilities, product quality, services, performances, or conditions. For instance, if a company releases a subpar product, it might be said that the product is not up to snuff. Similarly, if an individual fails to meet expectations in a task or a job, they can be described as not up to snuff.
Overall, "not up to snuff" serves as a concise and colloquial way to express disappointment or dissatisfaction with something or someone that fails to match the anticipated or required standard. It is a common idiom used in informal conversations or discussions to convey an unfavorable judgment or critique.
Common Misspellings for NOT UP TO SNUFF
Idioms with the word NOT UP TO SNUFF
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not up to snuff
The idiom "not up to snuff" means not meeting expectations or not reaching a satisfactory standard. It implies that something is below par or substandard in quality.
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not up to scratch and not up to snuff
These idioms mean not meeting a certain standard or expectation, being inadequate or not satisfactory.
