pass with flying colors

USAGE SUMMARY

"pass with flying colors" is a correct phrase and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe when someone has achieved success in something, especially an examination or test. For example, "After studying hard for months, he was able to pass the college entrance exam with flying colors."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

Will it pass with flying colors?

The New York Times

Here are a few tests that Kermit 95 and MS-DOS Kermit pass with flying colors.

Columbia University

Of course, the nine designers included here pass with flying colors.

The New York Times - Magazine

Warren E. Buffettsuggested in his shareholder letter that Wells Fargo was about to pass with flying colors.

The New York Times

It is a test we must pass, and it is a test we will pass with flying colors.

The New York Times

In terms of testing negative, the type of test used as well as test sensitivity will affect whether or not you pass with flying colors or fail.

Columbia University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

"And I passed with flying colors".

The New Yorker

It passed with flying colors.

The New York Times - Books

Both passed with flying colors.

The Guardian - Sport

She passed with flying colors.

The New York Times

Korff said it passed with flying colors.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "pass with flying colors" to emphasize a particularly impressive success, often in situations involving a test, exam, or challenge. It conveys more enthusiasm than simply saying someone 'passed' or 'succeeded'.

Common error

Avoid using "pass with flying colors" for mundane everyday tasks. This idiom is best reserved for situations where a notable achievement or successful navigation of a challenge is involved.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "pass with flying colors" functions as an idiomatic expression to indicate a significant achievement or success, typically in overcoming a challenge or test. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the idiomatic phrase "pass with flying colors" signifies achieving remarkable success, often after a test or challenge. Ludwig AI confirms it is a correct and usable expression. Predominantly found in News & Media and Academic contexts, the phrase carries a neutral register, making it versatile for various situations. Alternatives like "succeed spectacularly" can be used to convey similar meanings. When using this idiom, reserve it for situations where the success is truly noteworthy, and not for everyday tasks. The idiom is quite common.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

come through with flying colors

This variant is a structural change and focuses on overcoming obstacles.

succeed spectacularly

This alternative emphasizes the impressive nature of the success.

excel triumphantly

This alternative stresses both high achievement and the celebratory aspect of success.

ace with distinction

This alternative focuses on achieving a top grade with a noticeable level of excellence.

triumph handsomely

This alternative highlights a satisfying and significant victory.

do outstandingly well

This alternative emphasizes exceptional performance.

get a resounding success

This alternative focuses on the clear and undeniable nature of the success achieved.

achieve top marks

This focuses specifically on receiving the highest possible grade.

nail it perfectly

This alternative uses more informal language to denote flawless execution.

shine brilliantly

This alternative uses metaphorical language to express outstanding success.

FAQs

How can I use "pass with flying colors" in a sentence?

The phrase "pass with flying colors" is used to describe achieving a very high level of success. For example, "She studied diligently and "passed with flying colors" on her final exams".

What does it mean to "pass with flying colors"?

To "pass with flying colors" means to succeed at something easily and impressively. It suggests not just passing, but excelling.

Which is correct, "pass with flying colors" or "pass with flying colours"?

"Pass with flying colors" is the standard American English spelling, while "pass with flying colours" is the British English spelling. Both are correct, depending on the region.

What can I say instead of "pass with flying colors"?

You can use alternatives like "succeed spectacularly", "excel triumphantly", or "do outstandingly well" depending on the context.