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REFERENCE

moment of truth

idiom
Meaning

A deciding instant; the time when a test determines or makes it apparent whether something will succeed.


Origin

disputed origin

A calque of Spanish momento de la verdad, which refers to the time of the final sword thrust in a bullfight.

Examples
SIMPLE

This is the moment of truth for my driving test.

CONTEXTUAL

The team waited in silence as the judge prepared to announce the winner, knowing this was the moment of truth.

COMPLEX

After months of rigorous preparation and tireless effort, the scientist stood before the data, fully aware that this was the moment of truth for her entire career.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    aha moment

    The moment or instant at which the solution to a problem, or some other significant realization, becomes clear.

  2. 02

    at any given moment

    At any point in time.

  3. 03

    bend the truth

    To change or leave out certain facts of a story or situation, generally in order to elicit a specific response in the audience.

  4. 04

    economical with the truth

    Not telling the whole truth, especially in order to present a false image of a situation; untruthful; lying. Often used with sarcasm or satire.

  5. 05

    eureka moment

    The moment of a sudden unexpected discovery.

  6. 06

    God's honest truth

    Unquestionable, absolute truth.

  7. 07

    grain of truth

    Synonym of kernel of truth.

  8. 08

    Hallmark moment

    A memorable moment or event, one which would either make for or call for a poignant greeting card.

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