with flying colors
Meaning
To achieve or complete something with great success or distinction; to pass or succeed very easily and impressively.
Origin
From naval practice: ships returning victorious would sail with their flags ('colors') flying; by the 18thβ19th century it meant a triumphant or successful return, later generalized.
Notes
Positive, complimentary tone; implies clear, often impressive success due to effort or skill. Used in informal and formal contexts; can be used sarcastically.
Examples
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She passed the bar exam with flying colors.
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The team completed the project with flying colors, finishing ahead of schedule.
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After months of practice, he performed the concerto with flying colors.
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The new product passed all safety tests with flying colors.
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If we prepare well, we'll get the funding with flying colors.
Grammar & Usage Notes
A fixed prepositional phrase. Commonly follows verbs like 'pass', 'succeed', 'complete' (e.g., 'pass with flying colors'). Can function adverbially ('They returned with flying colors'). Not inflected.
Synonyms
- succeed brilliantly
- triumph
- ace
- knock it out of the park
- pass easily
Antonyms
- fail
- flunk
- perform poorly
- fall short