Up to snuff

adjective

Meeting the required standard or quality.

She didn't feel her singing was up to snuff, so she decided to get some lessons.
Visual representation of "up to snuff" - Meeting the required standard or quality.

Often appears as...

  • not up to snuff
  • feel up to snuff

Usage tips

Idiomatic

adjective

Meeting the required standard or quality.

She didn't feel her singing was up to snuff, so she decided to get some lessons.
Visual representation of "up to snuff" - Meeting the required standard or quality.

Often appears as...

  • not up to snuff
  • feel up to snuff

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "up to snuff"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Informal Use

Used in casual settings, the phrase adds a friendly tone to critiques or assessments.

Illustration for Informal Use
Your cooking is finally up to snuff—great job!
LampPro Tip 2/3

Colloquial Origins

Originates from the 19th century, reflecting standards of snuff (powdered tobacco).

Illustration for Colloquial Origins
This new snuff is certainly up to snuff; it's just what I expected.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Subjectivity

The phrase is often subjective, varying according to personal standards or expectations.

Illustration for Subjectivity
I think this essay is up to snuff, but let’s see what the teacher says.
LampPro Tip 1/3

Informal Use

Used in casual settings, the phrase adds a friendly tone to critiques or assessments.

Illustration for Informal Use
Your cooking is finally up to snuff—great job!
LampPro Tip 2/3

Colloquial Origins

Originates from the 19th century, reflecting standards of snuff (powdered tobacco).

Illustration for Colloquial Origins
This new snuff is certainly up to snuff; it's just what I expected.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Subjectivity

The phrase is often subjective, varying according to personal standards or expectations.

Illustration for Subjectivity
I think this essay is up to snuff, but let’s see what the teacher says.
LampPro Tip 1/3

Informal Use

Used in casual settings, the phrase adds a friendly tone to critiques or assessments.

Illustration for Informal Use
Your cooking is finally up to snuff—great job!
LampPro Tip 2/3

Colloquial Origins

Originates from the 19th century, reflecting standards of snuff (powdered tobacco).

Illustration for Colloquial Origins
This new snuff is certainly up to snuff; it's just what I expected.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Subjectivity

The phrase is often subjective, varying according to personal standards or expectations.

Illustration for Subjectivity
I think this essay is up to snuff, but let’s see what the teacher says.
Visual representation of the word "Up to snuff"

Never forget "Up to snuff"

Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!

Download on the App StoreGet it on Google PlayGet it from MicrosoftGet it on AppGallery
Chrome

WordUp Chrome Extension

As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.

Get Chrome Extension
Back to top