DOWN PAT Meaning and
Definition
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The phrase "down pat" is an idiomatic expression used to denote the mastery or perfect understanding of something. When a person has something "down pat," it means that they have thoroughly and completely memorized, learned, or mastered a particular skill, knowledge, or procedure.
The term "down pat" is commonly used when referring to someone who has in-depth knowledge or expertise in a specific area. It implies that the individual has acquired a high level of proficiency and can perform or recall information effortlessly and flawlessly. This could apply to a wide range of subjects, including academic disciplines, professional tasks, sports techniques, or even social skills.
The phrase "down pat" originated from the idea of having something thoroughly ingrained or imprinted in one's memory. The word "down" suggests the profundity or depth of knowledge, while "pat" refers to the precise and automatic recollection or execution of what has been learned.
To have something "down pat" requires not only understanding but also the ability to apply knowledge quickly and accurately. Consequently, it implies a state of near-perfection or expertise in a particular area. When someone says they have a skill "down pat," it signifies that they have reached a level of competence where they can perform tasks effortlessly, without hesitation, or with minimal effort.
Overall, "down pat" encapsulates the state of being extremely familiar, well-versed, and highly skilled in a specific domain, illustrating a comprehensive understanding and effortless execution of a given skill, knowledge, method, or information.
Common Misspellings for DOWN PAT
- downpat
- sown pat
- xown pat
- cown pat
- fown pat
- rown pat
- eown pat
- diwn pat
- dkwn pat
- dlwn pat
- dpwn pat
- d0wn pat
- d9wn pat
- doqn pat
- doan pat
- dosn pat
- doen pat
- do3n pat
- do2n pat
- dowb pat
Etymology of DOWN PAT
The exact etymology of the phrase "down pat" is unclear, as it does not have a definitive origin. However, there are a few theories about its source:
1. Patterning of a Knack or Skill: One theory suggests that "pat" is derived from the word "pattern". In this context, "down" would imply fully or perfectly. Together, "down pat" would mean to have a skill or knowledge fully memorized or mastered, as if it were a pre-set pattern.
2. Card Playing: Another theory suggests that the phrase originated from the realm of card playing. In this context, "pat" could derive from the notion of having all the necessary cards dealt to complete a hand successfully. Once again, "down" would imply perfect or complete mastery, indicating that one possesses the ideal cards for victory.
Idioms with the word DOWN PAT
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have/get (something) down pat
The idiom "have/get (something) down pat" means to have or acquire a skill or knowledge to the point of mastery or perfection. It refers to being extremely familiar or adept at performing a task, solving a problem, or understanding a concept without any effort or mistakes.
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learn (something) down pat
The idiom "learn (something) down pat" means to thoroughly and perfectly understand or memorize something to such an extent that it becomes second nature or automatic. It implies being able to recall or execute the information effortlessly, with no mistakes or hesitation.
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have sth down pat
To have something "down pat" means to have it mastered or fully understood. It refers to being extremely knowledgeable or skilled in a particular area, task, or skill.
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have/know sth down pat, at have/know sth off pat
To have or know something down pat or off pat means to have mastered or memorized something perfectly; to know something thoroughly and be able to perform or recall it easily.
Similar spelling words for DOWN PAT
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