the rubber meets the road
The phrase "the rubber meets the road" originates from the point where a car's tires make contact with the road, symbolizing the transition from theory to practice.
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Definition
B2General
(idiomatic)The point at which a plan or idea is put into action and its effectiveness is tested.
Example
- We've been planning this project for months, but it's when the rubber meets the road that we'll see if it really works.
- The athlete has been training for years, but the real test is where the rubber meets the road – in the championship game.
C1Business
(idiomatic)The moment when a strategy or plan is implemented and its success is evaluated.
Example
- The business proposal looks great on paper, but the rubber meets the road when we launch the product.
C1Personal Development
(idiomatic)The critical point where one's preparation or training is tested in a real situation.
Example
- All the self-improvement books are helpful, but the rubber meets the road when you start applying their lessons in your daily life.