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Region: General | Usage example: She realized she wasn't cut out for law.

Not cut out for it

Meaning

Unsuitable for a role or job.

Usage

Used when someone accepts a mismatch.

Origin & History

Origin notes can vary by region and source; this page gives the commonly reported explanation and usage context.

Tailoring metaphor for shape not matching.

Used widely in 20th-century English.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.