Separate/sort out the men from the boys

usgb
phrase

To distinguish people who are experienced or talented from those who are not.

The difficult project will separate the men from the boys in our team.
Visual representation of "separate/sort out the men from the boys" - To distinguish people who are experienced or talented from those who are not

Often appears as...

  • it's time to separate the men from the boys
  • this challenge will separate the men from the boys

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "separate/sort out the men from the boys"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Real-world Test

Often used when a situation is challenging enough to test a person's abilities or maturity.

Illustration for Real-world Test
Surviving in the wilderness will separate the men from the boys.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Experience Highlight

Emphasizes the difference between those who can handle tough situations due to experience or skill.

Illustration for Experience Highlight
In a crisis, you really separate the men from the boys.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Potential Misuse

The phrase can seem sexist or outdated. It's important to be sensitive to gender inclusivity when using it.

Illustration for Potential Misuse
This phrase is tricky; you don't want to separate the men from the boys in a gender-neutral office environment.
Visual representation of the word "Separate/sort out the men from the boys"

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