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With flying colors

Idiomatic Phrase
Pronunciation

Understanding ARPABET Pronunciation

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The pronunciation guide uses the ARPABET phonetic system—the same system used in speech recognition and text-to-speech applications.

Vowel Examples:
AE1 = cat, bat
EH1 = bed, head
IY1 = see, me
OW1 = go, boat
UW1 = boot, do
Stress Numbers:
0 = no stress (unstressed)
1 = primary stress (loud)
2 = secondary stress (medium)
Example:
AH0 TH IY1 N AH0
= a-THEE-na (Athena)

The stressed syllable (marked with 1) is pronounced louder and clearer than others.

Quick Definition

An idiom meaning to succeed brilliantly, pass with high marks, or achieve outstanding results, originating from naval flags flown by victorious ships returning from battle.

Detailed Definition
With flying colours means with great success, distinction, or honour. The idiom evokes flags or banners displayed in victory, giving achievement a visual and ceremonial quality. In poetry, it can describe passing a test, surviving a trial, returning from battle, or proving moral courage. A poet may use it sincerely, humorously, or ironically if public success hides private cost. The phrase is useful for exploring triumph, display, recognition, and the difference between outward victory and inward experience.
Example
Example in poetry:
A school poem might show the shy pupil passing the trial with flying colours; In a quest poem, the heroine crosses the final test with flying colours and no trumpet; The phrase means with great success; A poet can use it for triumph earned quietly.
Additional Notes
With flying colours means succeed brilliantly, originally associated with ships or regiments displaying flags after victory. In British English, colours is spelled with a u. In poetry, it can describe examinations, trials, battles, performances, or moral tests passed with honour. Students should notice the visual celebration: success is not hidden but bright and public. It pairs well with banners, uniforms, schools, parades, and moments of recognised achievement.
Also Known As
successfully
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