Par for the Course ⚖️
Just about average or typical. The term comes from golf, where “par” means the number of strokes set as a standard for a particular hole or for the entire course, a score not attained by the majority of players. The term was transferred to other activities in the 1920s, but often with a mildly derogatory or deprecatory connotation, as in:
Example: “He’s nearly half an hour late; that’s just about par for the course.”
Synonyms
- Mediocre
- Typical
- Standard
- Average
Antonyms
- Exceptional
- Unusual
- Extraordinary
- Above par
Related Expressions
- Up to par: Meeting a standard or norm.
- Below par: Less than satisfactory; in poor spirits or health.
Literary Reference:
C. E. Montague (1867–1928) wrote in “Fiery Particles,” “I was born below par to the extent of two whiskies.”
📚 Literature & Books
- “Catch-22” by Joseph Heller
- When absurdity and mediocrity mix.
- “Moby-Dick” by Herman Melville
- Achieving the “whale” might be above par.
🎥 Movies
- “Tin Cup” (1996)
- A humorous take on golfing setbacks.
- “Caddyshack” (1980)
- The ultimate golf comedy.
🎶 Songs
- “Changes” by David Bowie
- Embraces life’s ups and downs, sometimes it’s par for the course.
- “The Climb” by Miley Cyrus
- Not always up to par, but it’s about the effort.
About the Author:
Caddy Clichés, a golf enthusiast with a penchant for language quirks, enjoys exploring how sports metaphors permeate all aspects of life.
Publishing Date:
2023-10-01
Inspirational Thought:
Remember, sometimes just being “par for the course” is perfectly okay. Life isn’t always about hitting a hole-in-one but enjoying the play and learning from each swing. 🌟
