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
Antinisca is looking ready to go, but it's not clear whether Beatrice will make the grade.
From BBC • Dec. 8, 2023
On one occasion, the pots came up filled with crab that didn’t make the grade and went overboard as discards largely because they lacked size or were unsightly.
From Seattle Times • Apr. 3, 2022
I'd say this bird had been tried out in serious stuff and couldn't make the grade.
From Merton of the Movies by Wilson, Harry Leon