have one's work cut out for somebody

Definition & Meaning of "have one's work cut out for somebody "

to have one's work cut out for somebody

PHRASE

used to say that something is very difficult and one will need to put a lot of effort into doing it

to [have] {one's} work cut out for {sb} definition and meaning

Idiom

Informal

What is the origin of the idiom "have one's work cut out for someone" and when to use it?

The idiom "have one's work cut out for someone" is used to express that someone has a challenging or demanding task ahead of them. The origin of this expression can be traced back to the practice of tailoring or dressmaking. When a tailor had a piece of fabric already cut out for a particular garment, it meant that the most time-consuming and difficult part of the work was already done.

Example

The team has their work cut out for them as they prepare for the championship match against the strongest opponents in the league.

The newly appointed manager has her work cut out for her in turning around the struggling company and improving its financial performance.

With only a week left until the deadline, I have my work cut out for me to complete this extensive research project.

The chef had his work cut out for him as he had to prepare a gourmet meal for a large wedding reception with specific dietary restrictions and preferences.