PhrasesHub

Test your mettle - see show your mettle

    Definitions

      • demonstrate one's ability to cope with a demanding situation or challenge
        Encourage someone to prove their strength, skill, or courage in a difficult or testing situation

    Examples of Test your mettle - see show your mettle

    • The sales competition is a chance for our new sales representatives to test their mettle. They will be competing against seasoned salespeople, and we are eager to see how they perform.

      The phrase "test your mettle" means to challenge someone's abilities or resolve in a difficult situation. In this example, the sales representatives are being challenged in a competitive environment to see if they have the skills and determination to succeed. The phrase "see show your mettle" is a variation that means to witness someone's abilities in a challenging situation. By watching the sales competition, we will be able to judge the new sales representatives based on their performance.

    • The project presented many challenges, but our team showed great mettle in overcoming them. Despite the obstacles, we were able to complete the project on time and within budget.

      In this example, "show great mettle" means to demonstrate courage, determination, and skill in handling difficult circumstances. Our team faced several challenges during the project, but they rose to the occasion and demonstrated their capabilities.

    • The athlete trained for years to develop the mettle needed to compete at the highest level. It takes more than just natural ability to succeed in sports.

      In this example, "develop the mettle needed to compete at the highest level" means to cultivate the mental and physical toughness required to excel in a demanding athletic environment. The athlete had to put in a lot of hard work and dedication to develop the qualities needed to compete against the best in the world.

    • The CEO displayed great mettle in leading the company through a difficult period. The company was facing significant challenges, but the CEO's leadership skills and resilience helped the company weather the storm.

      In this example, "displayed great mettle" means to exhibit courage, determination, and leadership qualities in difficult circumstances. The CEO's actions during the challenging period helped to build trust and respect among employees and stakeholders, and the company emerged stronger as a result.

    • The CEO announced that the company would face tough competition in the upcoming quarter. This is our chance to test our mettle, she said, and prove that we are the best in the industry.

      To test your mettle is to challenge your abilities and determine how well you can perform under pressure. When the CEO said that this was their chance to test their mettle, she was essentially saying that the upcoming competition would expose their abilities and test how well they could compete.

    • He may be new to the job, but we've seen him in action and we know he's got the mettle to succeed.

      To see someone's mettle is to observe their performance in a challenging situation. In this example, the speaker is saying that they have observed the person in action and can confidently say that they have the necessary skills and abilities to succeed in their new job.

    • The team worked tirelessly for months, and their hard work finally paid off when they emerged victorious. They truly showed their mettle in that competition.

      To show your mettle is to demonstrate your abilities and skills in a challenging situation. In this example, the team's hard work and perseverance paid off when they emerged victorious, and they demonstrated their mettle by performing exceptionally well in the competition.

    • She may be young, but she's got a fire inside her that's going to take her far. I'm excited to see her test her mettle in this new role.

      To test your mettle in a new role is to prove yourself in a challenging situation by using your skills and abilities to excel in your new position. In this example, the speaker is confident in the young woman's abilities and is looking forward to seeing her test her mettle in her new role.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "test your mettle" is used to describe situations where someone is being challenged to show their true abilities and strength. It can be used in a variety of contexts, such as sports, work, or personal relationships, to encourage someone to rise to the occasion and demonstrate their capabilities. It is often used to motivate and inspire individuals to overcome obstacles and prove themselves in challenging circumstances.

    Origin of "Test your mettle - see show your mettle"

    The origin of the idiom "test your mettle" can be traced back to the medieval period, where the word "mettle" was used to describe a person's courage, strength, and resilience. The word itself is derived from the Old French word "metal," which means "courage, spirit, or temperament." In the context of the idiom, "test" refers to putting something to the proof or trial, and "mettle" refers to one's inner qualities and character.

    The idiom gained popularity in the English language around the 16th century and has since been used to challenge individuals to demonstrate their true abilities and resilience in the face of adversity. It is often used in a positive and encouraging manner, urging people to rise to the occasion and show what they are truly made of. The idiom has become a common phrase in motivational speeches, sports commentary, and everyday conversations, emphasizing the importance of overcoming challenges and proving one's worth.