flying colors
Noun phrase: - Complete and outstanding success; a very high level of achievement or victory. The phrase "with flying colors" is used to describe a situation where someone has succeeded brilliantly, often exceeding expectations or passing a test with a very high score.
The phrase is almost exclusively used in the prepositional phrase "with flying colors." It functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb, typically one related to passing, completing, or succeeding. - It describes the manner or degree of success. - It is used to emphasize a triumphant or highly commendable outcome.
- She passed her final exams with flying colors.
- The new product launched with flying colors, exceeding all sales forecasts.
- He came through the difficult audit with flying colors.
- The team finished the project with flying colors.
- The phrase can be used with various verbs of success beyond "pass," such as , , , , and .
- He aced the interview with flying colors.
- The vintage car sailed through the mechanical inspection with flying colors.
- Flying colours: The British English spelling of "colors."
- With flying flags: A less common and now largely archaic variant with a similar meaning.
- Triumphantly
- Brilliantly
- Resoundingly
- With great success
The phrase originates from naval warfare. "Colors" refers to the flags (national ensigns) flown by a ship. A ship returning to port "with flying colors"—meaning with its flags raised high and proudly—signaled a victorious return from battle. A defeated ship would typically lower its colors ("strike its colors") as a sign of surrender. Thus, the modern meaning retains this sense of proud and unambiguous victory.
- complete success
- they passed inspection with flying colors