The phrase "what it takes" is commonly used to refer to the necessary qualities or abilities someone needs in order to succeed at something. When pronounced, it is transcribed as /wɒt ɪt teɪks/. The "wh" in "what" makes the /w/ sound followed by the /ɒ/ sound, as in "hot". The word "it" is pronounced with a short /ɪ/ sound followed by the consonant blend /t/. Finally, "takes" is pronounced with a long /eɪ/ sound followed by the /k/ sound and the voiced /z/ sound.
"What it takes" is a colloquial expression that refers to the necessary qualities, skills, attributes, or actions required in order to achieve a particular goal or be successful in a specific endeavor. It can be used to describe the essential elements or the inherent capabilities one must possess to accomplish a desired outcome.
The term signifies that there are certain prerequisites or prerequisites to be met and challenges to be overcome in order to attain a particular objective or be recognized as competent in a specific domain. It implies that the achievement of a goal necessitates a combination of determination, skill, knowledge, experience, perseverance, drive, and personal qualities that are crucial.
In various contexts, "what it takes" can encompass different aspects such as talent, aptitude, expertise, hard work, dedication, ambition, resourcefulness, intelligence, creativity, resilience, leadership, or adaptability. It emphasizes the unique and often multifaceted requirements of a task or purpose, suggesting that success is not easily attained and often necessitates significant effort and personal qualities.
Moreover, the phrase implies that there may be a competitive aspect involved, as it suggests that individuals must possess characteristics or fulfill criteria that set them apart from others in order to accomplish the desired outcome. It highlights the idea that not everyone has the necessary attributes, skills, or mindset to achieve a particular goal, therefore emphasizing the importance of personal qualities and abilities in determining success.