meantolearn  +  705251 Tue, 28 Apr 09 07:57 AM not cut it - to not be good enough to do something: e.g. I don't get it why such a talented guy just can't cut it. e.g. If she can't cut it, we might need to get someone else to take over the case. e.g. Players who can't cut it soon quit the team. Can anyone briefly explain why this phrase has such a meaning? Thanks meantolearn Joined on Thu, Feb 24 2005 Regular Member 808 I think; therefore I am. Phrase

	Avangi  +  705411 Tue, 28 Apr 09 10:03 AM I think the expression is older than I am. The only related expression I know is "Can't cut the mustard," and the variation, "To old to cut the mustard."  I'd have to do a search to find what it has to do with mustard. In professional big bands, the rule was "Cut, or no notice."  If you couldn't play the part, you were fired with no notice, i.e., immediately. I think I've seen threads on this subject before.  You might try our local search engine. Avangi Joined on Mon, Nov 19 2007 Veteran Member 8,182 ". . . le plaisir delicieux et toujours nouveau d'une occupation inutile." - Henri de Regnier

	MrPernickety  +  705433 Tue, 28 Apr 09 10:09 AM If you want to know how it came to mean what it means, I can offer this explanation: if one can't cut it, or can't cut the mustard, they're like an old knife with a blunt business end, and hence they can't do any work and they're useless. MrPernickety Joined on Sat, Oct 25 2008 Regular Member 736 Amendment XXX to the US Constitution: No man shall be held accountable for any promise he makes while drunk unless it was a bet. Careers, Business

	Avangi  +  705525 Tue, 28 Apr 09 11:24 AM Makes sense. Avangi