it passes muster

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it passes muster" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that something meets a certain standard or is acceptable. Example: "After reviewing the proposal, I can confirm that it passes muster and is ready for submission."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

32 human-written examples

It passes muster.

The New York Times

So it passes muster here in my book".

The New York Times

At that time, if it passes muster, the inspector will assign it a new letter grade.

The New York Times

As a silly diversion for the silly season, it passes muster, but only just.

The New York Times

It passes muster as a metaphor if not as a matter of demonstrable fact.

The New York Times

If it passes muster, divers won't be left shivering for much longer.

MIT Technology Review

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

He says he still feels free to reject any code NetApp submits, though he also points out that working so closely with NetApp means he can suggest ways it might change its code to make it pass muster.

Forbes

Surprises aside, it passed muster because of its tender meat.

The New York Times

Does it pass muster?

The Guardian

Mr. Campbell spent another couple of hours on No. K0862 before it passed muster with Mr. Dillon.

The New York Times

To check it passed muster, she asked a doctor from Raqaa – and activist with campaign group Raqaa is being Slaughtered Silently – to cast an over the story.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it passes muster" when you want to convey that something has been examined and found to be adequate or acceptable, but not necessarily outstanding. It's a useful idiom for expressing that something meets the minimum requirements.

Common error

Avoid using "it passes muster" excessively in formal writing. While acceptable, it can sound cliché if used too often. Consider using more precise language to describe how something meets requirements, like "it meets the criteria" or "it satisfies the standards".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it passes muster" functions as a predicate, asserting that a subject meets a certain standard or is deemed acceptable. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English. The examples show it describing everything from metaphorical claims to physical products.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

95%

Science

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it passes muster" is a common idiom used to express that something meets a certain standard or is deemed acceptable. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and sees frequent use in various contexts, particularly in News & Media. While useful, it's advisable to use it judiciously and consider more precise alternatives in formal writing. Related phrases include "it meets the requirements" and "it is acceptable".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it meets the requirements

Indicates that something satisfies a set of necessary conditions, emphasizing compliance.

it is up to standard

Focuses on the quality reaching an expected level, implying satisfactory condition.

it measures up

Suggests a comparison against a benchmark, highlighting the ability to compete or succeed.

it is acceptable

A general term indicating that something is satisfactory without necessarily excelling.

it is satisfactory

Similar to 'acceptable' but may imply a slightly higher level of fulfillment.

it holds up

Implies the ability to withstand scrutiny or testing, suggesting durability and reliability.

it stands the test

Similar to 'holds up' but emphasizes a formal evaluation process.

it gets the nod

Informal way of saying something has been approved or given consent.

it is approved

A straightforward statement of permission or endorsement.

it is validated

Emphasizes formal confirmation or authentication, often in technical or scientific contexts.

FAQs

What does "it passes muster" mean?

The phrase "it passes muster" means that something has been examined and found to be satisfactory or acceptable. It implies that something meets a certain standard or requirement.

How can I use "it passes muster" in a sentence?

You can use "it passes muster" to indicate that something has been approved or deemed adequate. For example, "After reviewing the proposal, I can confirm that "it passes muster" and is ready for submission."

What are some alternatives to "it passes muster"?

You can use alternatives like "it meets the criteria", "it is acceptable", or "it is satisfactory" depending on the context.

Is "it passes muster" formal or informal?

The phrase "it passes muster" is generally considered to be somewhat informal but acceptable in many contexts. However, in very formal or technical writing, a more precise alternative might be preferred, like "it satisfies the requirements".