not cut the mustard

doesn't cut the mustard

1. Is unable to work or operate in a satisfactory manner. I need a new worker from the temp agency—the one you sent over keeps mixing up orders and just doesn't cut the mustard. This toaster doesn't cut the mustard anymore. No matter what setting you choose, your toast comes out charred!

2. Is not at an acceptable level or of an acceptable standard. I know you highly recommended this guy, but he doesn't cut the mustard. He just can't keep up when things get busy. I have to warn you, Jenkins, your last few reports didn't quite cut the mustard. You're going to need to improve if you want to keep your job here.

See also: cut, mustard

not cut the mustard

To not be at a satisfactory or requisite level; to not successfully complete or accomplish a desired or expected result. The underdog gave a brilliant performance in the ring, but he just could not cut the mustard against the returning champion. I have to warn you, Jenkins, your last few reports haven't quite cut the mustard. You're going to need to improve if you want to keep your job here.

See also: cut, mustard, not

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2022 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

not cut the mustard

If someone or something doesn't cut the mustard, they are not of an acceptable standard. He's certainly a fine writer but as a director, he doesn't quite cut the mustard. For me, neither show quite cuts the mustard. Note: Less commonly, you hear people say that someone or something can cut the mustard, meaning that they are of a good standard. The thirty-year-old striker is keen to prove that he can still cut the mustard. Note: In the United States, `mustard' used to be slang for `the best' or `the genuine article'.

See also: cut, mustard, not

Collins COBUILD Idioms Dictionary, 3rd ed. © HarperCollins Publishers 2012