what it takes
The skill, ability, or wherewithal to do something. She's pretty talented—I think she might have what it takes to make it in Hollywood.
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.
what it takes
The necessary expertise or qualities, as in She's got what it takes to make a good doctor, or Inherited wealth is what it takes to maintain that lifestyle. This idiom uses what in the sense of "that which" and take in the sense of "require." [1920]
The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer. Copyright © 2003, 1997 by The Christine Ammer 1992 Trust. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.
what it takes
The necessary expertise or qualities needed for success: She has what it takes to be a doctor.
American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright © 2016 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.