what it takes
The needed stuff
What it takes refers to the qualities, abilities, or resources necessary to accomplish something difficult or demanding.
The phrase implies a standard that must be met, often one involving determination, skill, or courage: She has what it takes to be a surgeon.
It frequently appears in contexts of evaluation or doubt: Do you have what it takes?
The expression suggests that success requires specific but perhaps hard-to-define characteristics.
- moxieSpirited boldness under pressure
- true gritAuthentic, steadfast courage
- gritDetermination or abrasive particles
- the right stuffIdeal qualities for demanding tasks
- commitmentFirm pledge to act
determination · grind · diligence · resilience · mental toughness · effort · blood sweat and tears · push · mettle · inner strength · sacrifice · sweat · courage · intestinal fortitude · chops · perseverance · backbone · skill
what it takesinadequacy
State of being insufficient
insufficiency · incompetence · inability · out of one's depth · incapability
what it takeswishful thinking
Belief shaped by desire
pipe dreams · daydreaming · all talk · hot air · empty promises
take, mistake, what, taken, taking, mistaken, overtake, takes, mistakes