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to have something down pat
01
to know something so perfectly that one can do it at anytime without having to focus or think
Dialect
American
American
![to [have|know] {sth} down pat definition and meaning](https://cdn.langeek.co/photo/44780/original/?type=jpeg "to [have|know] {sth} down pat definition and meaning")
Idiom
InformalWhat is the origin of the idiom "have something down pat" and when to use it?
The idiom "have something down pat" suggests that someone has mastered a skill, task, or knowledge to the point of being able to perform it perfectly and effortlessly. It originates from the idea of having a pattern or process down so well that it feels like it's been imprinted or memorized, akin to having it "pat" or perfectly mastered. This phrase is commonly used to indicate a high level of proficiency or expertise in a particular area, emphasizing that the person is highly skilled and knowledgeable about the subject or task at hand.
Examples
She knows the piano piece down pat; she can play it flawlessly.
After years of practice, he has the presentation down pat and can deliver it without any hesitation.
