cut the mustard

phrase

Synonyms of cut the mustardnext
: to achieve the standard of performance necessary for success
I tried to join the soccer team, but I couldn't cut the mustard.

Word History

First Known Use

1884, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of cut the mustard was in 1884

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Cite this Entry

“Cut the mustard.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cut%20the%20mustard. Accessed 31 Aug. 2026.

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