How Do You Spell ON PAR?

Pronunciation: [ˌɒn pˈɑː] (IPA)

The phrase "on par" means equal or comparable to something else. It is spelled as /ɒn ˈpɑːr/ in IPA phonetic transcription. This phrase is widely used in sports to indicate when a player's score is equal to the average score of their peers or competitors. The origin of the phrase comes from golf, where players aim to complete a hole in the same number of strokes as the expected number of strokes based on the hole's length and difficulty, which is called the par.

ON PAR Meaning and Definition

1. "On par" is an idiomatic expression that is often used to describe a situation or comparison in which two things or individuals are considered equal or equivalent in some way. It denotes a state of being on the same level or having the same standard or quality.

   In a literal sense, the term "on par" is derived from the game of golf, where it refers to a score that is equal to the standard or average score for a particular hole or course. When a golfer achieves a score that is on par, it means they have performed as expected and are keeping up with the anticipated level of performance.

   When applied outside of the realm of golf, "on par" can encompass various contexts. For instance, it can describe two companies or organizations that are competing and have achieved a similar level of success or efficiency. It can also be used to compare individuals' skills, abilities, or achievements, indicating that they are at a similar level of proficiency.

   Overall, "on par" is a versatile expression that signifies equivalence, equality, or similarity, and is commonly used to convey that two things or individuals are comparable in terms of quality, performance, or achievement.

Etymology of ON PAR

The term "on par" originates from the sport of golf. It comes from the Old Scotsword "pair", meaning "equal", which itself derived from the Latin word "par". In golf, the phrase "on par" refers to a player's score being equal to the expected or usual score for a particular hole or course. Over time, the phrase was adopted in a broader sense to mean being equal or comparable to something else.

Idioms with the word ON PAR

• on par (with sm or sth) "On par with (someone or something)" means being equal to or comparable in terms of quality, standard, or level of excellence.