earn one's spurs
Demonstrate one's merit
To earn one's spurs is to prove oneself through achievement or hard work, gaining recognition or status.
The phrase comes from the medieval custom of awarding golden spurs to newly knighted warriors.
Today it applies broadly: She earned her spurs as a trial lawyer before joining the firm.
The expression suggests credentials gained through demonstrated competence rather than title or position.
- testEvaluative examination
- trial by fireTest through difficult experience
- rite of passageTransition-marking ceremony
- come of ageReach legal adulthood
- accomplishmentSuccessful completion of aim
proving ground · prove oneself · honor · merit · struggle · learning · pay one's dues · mastery · initiation · cut one's teeth · badge of honor · resilience · hardship · perseverance · distinction · knighthood · accolade · squire
earn one's spursfail the test
fall flat · fall short · wash out · flunk out · crash and burn
earn one's spursrest on one's laurels
Stop improving after success
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