with flying colours
with flying colours (idiom) – British
with flying colors – American
/wɪð ˈflaɪɪŋ ˈkʌlərz/
Meaning
- Achieve a task or goal very successfully.
- Complete an endeavor with exceptional success or distinction.
- Pass an examination or test with high marks or outstanding results.
Example Sentences
- She completed the project with flying colours, impressing all her colleagues.
- After months of preparation, he passed the certification exam with flying colors.
- The team faced tough competition but emerged with flying colours, winning the championship.
- Despite initial doubts, the product launch succeeded with flying colours, exceeding sales targets.
- He defended his thesis with flying colors, earning accolades from the panel.
Origin and History
The phrase “with flying colours” has its roots in naval traditions. Historically, ships would return to their home ports with their “colours” (flags) flying to display victory or successful completion of a voyage. A ship that had been successful would sail into port with its flags proudly displayed, while a defeated vessel might lower its flags as a sign of surrender or failure.
Military Associations
Beyond naval contexts, the term “colours” also refers to the flags or insignia representing military units. In battles, capturing an enemy’s colours was considered a significant achievement, symbolizing a rout or decisive victory. Conversely, retaining and displaying one’s own colours after a conflict signified triumph and honor.
Evolution into Common Parlance
Over time, the expression transcended its literal maritime and military meanings. By the early 1700s, “with flying colours” began to be used metaphorically to describe achieving success or passing a test with distinction. This shift reflects the broader application of the phrase to various contexts of accomplishment.
Earliest Recorded Usage
The earliest known written instance of the phrase dates back to 1622. During this period, “come off with flying colours” was a popular usage, indicating emerging from an endeavor successfully. The transition to using “pass” as the associated verb occurred later, aligning with the phrase’s application to academic and evaluative scenarios.
Alternative Theories and Speculations
While the predominant origin of “with flying colours” is linked to naval and military traditions, some speculative theories suggest alternative beginnings. For instance, it’s imagined that medieval tournaments, where knights displayed their family colours, might have contributed to the phrase’s inception. Victorious knights would parade their colours to showcase their success. However, such theories lack substantial historical evidence and remain within the realm of conjecture.
Synonyms
- achieve resounding success
- come through with honors
- triumph outstandingly
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