par for the course
Meaning
Something normal or expected in a given situation, even if it’s unpleasant or disappointing.
Origin
From golf: “par” is the standard number of strokes expected for a hole/course. What’s “par for the course” is what you’d normally expect on that course; it broadened to mean “typical/expected.”
Notes
Often carries a resigned or mildly sarcastic tone: “That’s typical around here.” Used for recurring problems or predictable outcomes.
Examples
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The last-minute changes are par for the course in this line of work.
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Their customer support is slow, but that’s par for the course with budget airlines.
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If he shows up late again, it’ll be par for the course.
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A few bugs at launch are par for the course for new apps.
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She faced some pushback, which was par for the course when proposing big reforms.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Usually used as a predicate or set phrase: “It’s par for the course.” Can follow “pretty/just” or be used after a clause: “Delays are par for the course.” Fixed wording; not typically pluralized.
Synonyms
- to be expected
- typical
- normal
- standard
- business as usual
- nothing new
Antonyms
- out of character
- unprecedented
- unexpected
- abnormal