PhrasesHub

Cordon bleu

    Definitions

      • high quality or exceptional
        Describing something or someone as top-notch, superior or of the highest standard or excellence

      • skilled or talented
        Referring to a person's exceptional abilities or talents in a particular field or activity

      • prestigious or of high status
        Describing something or someone as having a distinguished reputation or being highly regarded in a certain industry or sphere

    Examples of Cordon bleu

    • The restaurant earned its reputation as a true cordon bleu destination, with the chef's innovative yet classic dishes that elevated dining to a whole new level.

      In this example, "cordon bleu" is being used in a figurative sense to describe a restaurant that serves highly impressive, high-quality, and sophisticated cuisine.

    • After completing his culinary training from Le Cordon Bleu, John landed a job at Michelin-starred restaurant, further cementing his status as a cordon bleu chef.

      Here, "cordon bleu" is being used to refer to someone who has received advanced training and education in culinary arts, specifically from Le Cordon Bleu, and has attained a high level of expertise and skill in the field.

    • To say the least, the dessert was a true cordon bleu masterpiece - a heavenly concoction that left us speechless and wanting for more.

      In this case, "cordon bleu" is being used as a term of high praise, to describe a culinary creation that is truly exceptional, refined, and of the highest quality.

    • The tour of the local French market was a true cordon bleu experience, with tastings of fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and exquisite wines that left us feeling like true connoisseurs.

      Finally, in this example, "cordon bleu" is being used to describe an educational or experiential journey that elevates one's knowledge and appreciation of French culture, cuisine, and lifestyle.

    • Chef Julia Child's cookbook series is considered a "Cordon Bleu of home cooking."

      This idiom means that Julia Child's cookbooks are considered to be of the highest standard or quality, as the Cordon Bleu cooking school is renowned for teaching the most advanced and sophisticated cooking techniques.

    • In a world filled with fast food and prepared meals, learning to cook from scratch has become a "Cordon Bleu" skill.

      This idiom means that being able to cook from scratch, instead of relying on convenience foods, has become a rare and valuable skill, much like the advanced techniques taught at the Cordon Bleu cooking school.

    • The restaurant's head chef, trained at the esteemed Cordon Bleu cooking school, ensures that every dish leaves customers in awe, making it a truly "Cordon Bleu" dining experience.

      This idiom means that the chef's training at the prestigious Cordon Bleu cooking school has resulted in dishes that are of an exceptionally high standard, creating a truly memorable dining experience for the customers.

    • The new line of high-end kitchen appliances promises to elevate home cooking to "Cordon Bleu" levels, offering advanced features and functionalities.

      This idiom means that the new kitchen appliances are designed to help home cooks achieve the same level of sophistication and skill as that taught at the Cordon Bleu cooking school, allowing them to create dishes of the highest quality.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "cordon bleu" is commonly used to describe something or someone as being of exceptional quality, talent, or status. It is often used to praise or commend a person or thing for their excellence and top-notch abilities.

    In terms of discouraging someone from engaging in a particular activity or task, the phrase can be used to caution against settling for anything less than the best. It suggests that one should strive to attain a high level of skill or prestige and not settle for mediocre or subpar outcomes.

    On the other hand, the idiom can also be used to compliment and recognize someone's talents and skills. It is often used to describe individuals who excel in their field or have a distinguished reputation, highlighting their exceptional abilities and achievements.

    Origin of "Cordon bleu"

    The phrase "cordon bleu" has its origins in French cuisine. In the 16th century, the French King Henry III established an elite order of knights, known as the "Order of the Holy Spirit." These knights were known for their extravagant feasts and their chefs were referred to as "cordon bleus," meaning blue ribbons, which were the highest honor for culinary excellence.

    Later on, in the 19th century, the term "cordon bleu" was used in the culinary world to refer to a highly skilled and prestigious chef. It eventually evolved to encompass any person or thing that is of exceptional quality or talent.

    Today, the idiom "cordon bleu" is commonly used in English to refer to someone or something that is top-notch, exceptional, or prestigious. It carries a sense of sophistication and excellence, thanks to its origins in French cuisine and culinary excellence.