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
Organizers say it is a waste-free event, since they purchase oranges that don’t make the grade and would otherwise be tossed out.
From Seattle Times • Feb. 14, 2024
Antinisca is looking ready to go, but it's not clear whether Beatrice will make the grade.
From BBC • Dec. 8, 2023
This would be a short interrogation—despite his bravado, the thief was a coward, and already terrified of the two Inquisitors—but it would tell him whether or not Cortin would make the grade.
From The Alembic Plot A Terran Empire novel by Wilson, Ann