Success Idioms

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in vain

Meaning: without success

Example: It seems as if the merger will go through and all our hard work has been in vain. Read more ➺


where there’s a will, there’s a way

Meaning: willpower will defeat any difficulty

Example: The man drove through eight countries in his car. It is true, where there is a will, there is a way. Read more ➺


self-made man

Meaning: someone who achieves the success with his own hark work

Example: The governor is a self-made man and has had properties around the city even before he joined politics. Read more ➺


flash in the pan

Meaning: A brief but intense effort or success that doesn't lead to lasting or repeated results.

Example: It seemed promising early on, but flash in the pan efforts often fizzle without follow-through. Read more ➺


cut the mustard

Meaning: to succeed

Example: My neighbor had applied for the post of architect in a big project, but did not cut the mustard. Read more ➺


do the trick

Meaning: To achieve the desired result or solve a problem.

Example: Adding a bit more seasoning will do the trick and make the dish taste better. Read more ➺


do or die

Meaning: a situation in which you must take a big risk in order to avoid failure

Example: A do-or-die attempt to halt the invaders. Read more ➺


dark horse

Meaning: A person who unexpectedly wins or succeeds, especially when little is known about them.

Example: Jason was hardly mentioned during the race, but he became the dark horse and won the election. Read more ➺


on the crest of a wave

Meaning: to reach the highest point of success

Example: The music band comprising engineering students is currently on the crest of a wave, with a launch of new album it has planned for next year. Read more ➺


clean sweep

Meaning: an irresistible victory.

Example: The forecasters are predicting a clean sweep for the ruling party in the approaching election. Read more ➺


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