PhrasesHub

Show your mettle

    Definitions

      • demonstrate one's ability or strength
        To display one's true character, strength, or capability, especially in challenging or difficult situations

      • challenge someone to prove themselves
        To provoke or urge someone to demonstrate their abilities or courage in a difficult or demanding situation

    Examples of Show your mettle

    • Sarah's team was down by two points with only two minutes left in the game. She stepped up to shoot the next basket, showing her mettle as a skilled player under high-pressure situations.

      "Show your mettle" is a phrase that means to demonstrate one's strength, courage, and ability, especially in challenging or difficult circumstances. In this case, Sarah demonstrated her mettle as a basketball player by making a crucial basket when her team needed it most.

    • During the company's annual budget review, the CEO challenged the team to present their ideas in a creative and innovative way. John, a junior analyst, confidently presented his proposal, showcasing his mettle as a talented and creative thinker.

      In this example, John demonstrated his mettle by stepping up to the challenge presented by the CEO and delivering a persuasive and innovative proposal that impressed his colleagues and superiors.

    • When the city's water supply was contaminated, and residents were advised to boil drinking water, the local health department workers volunteered to distribute clean water to vulnerable populations, showing their mettle as dedicated public servants who put the well-being of their community above their own safety.

      This example illustrates how "show your mettle" can also be used to describe acts of service and selflessness in difficult situations. In this case, the health workers demonstrated their mettle by willingly facing the risks of the contaminated water supply to help those who were most vulnerable.

    • In the midst of the pandemic, many people were forced to work or study from home, leading to distractions and challenges. Emily, a college student, rose to the occasion and created a strictly scheduled workday for herself, maintaining her focus and productivity, showing her mettle as a responsible and disciplined student.

      Here, Emily demonstrated her mettle by adapting to the new reality of remote learning and work, instituting a strict routine that helped her stay focused, productive, and disciplined despite the distractions and challenges of working from home.

    • During the job interview, the candidate showcased their mettle by confidently answering every tricky question thrown at them, demonstrating their expertise and knowledge of the industry.

      In this example, 'show your mettle' means to demonstrate one's true ability and potential in a challenging situation. The candidate showed their true worth and skills under pressure, which impressed the interviewer.

    • In the final round of the athletics competition, the athlete had to push their limits to show their mettle and come out victorious. They gave it their all, running faster than ever before, and emerged as the champion.

      Here, 'show your mettle' implies the need to step up and perform exceptionally well in a critical situation. The athlete demonstrated their courage, determination, and prowess to win the competition.

    • In the swimming competition, the youngest participant in the race surprised everyone by showing their mettle and beating the more experienced swimmers. Their grit and determination earned them the admiration and respect of the audience.

      'Show your mettle' refers to demonstrating exceptional qualities and character traits in a high-pressure scenario. The youngest swimmer proved their talent and skills, despite the odds, and emerged as a strong contender.

    • In the boardroom meeting, the finance director stepped up and showed their mettle by presenting a well-thought-out strategy to resolve the financial crisis faced by the company. Their leadership and decision-making abilities impressed the board members.

      'Show your mettle' implies displaying leadership qualities and taking decisive actions in a critical situation. The finance director demonstrated their expertise and leadership skills to tackle the financial crisis.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "show your mettle" is often used to encourage someone to demonstrate their true abilities or character in difficult circumstances, or to challenge them to prove themselves in a particular situation. It can also be used to describe someone's actual demonstration of their abilities or strength in challenging situations.

    Origin of "Show your mettle"

    The origin of the idiom "show your mettle" can be traced back to the old practice of testing the quality of metal, particularly steel, by examining its strength and resilience. The term "mettle" refers to a person's ability to cope well with difficulties or to face a demanding situation with spirit and courage. Over time, the term evolved to be used metaphorically to describe a person's inner strength and capability. The idiom "show your mettle" likely originated from this literal meaning, and has since become a common expression in English to encourage someone to demonstrate their true abilities or character. For example, in medieval times, knights were often tested to "show their mettle" in battle, demonstrating their bravery and skill. Today, the idiom is used in various contexts to challenge or encourage individuals to prove themselves or to display their true capabilities in challenging situations.