make the grade
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Coltin Stidham wanted to be a pilot, but his eyesight didn’t make the grade.
From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 26, 2026
But the band’s early attempts to make the grade had fallen flat on its face.
From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 23, 2025
He made 55 appearances, scoring four goals, for United but was jettisoned by Erik ten Hag, who felt the winger wasn't going to make the grade.
From BBC • Apr. 1, 2025
The class’s first video to make the grade showed scenes from campus edited together.
From New York Times • Apr. 4, 2023
Now only, you cannot make the grade, poor child.
From Edgar Saltus: The Man by Saltus, Marie