This watch is the real McCoy, not a cheap copy.
real McCoy
idiomThe genuine thing, neither a substitute nor an imitation.
Origin
first recorded 19th c. folk etymologyCorruption of Scots the real MacKay, this latter attested in 1856 as “A drappie o’ the real MacKay” (A drop of the real MacKay). How “MacKay” became “McCoy” is unclear; first attested in the form “McCoy” in the US in 1908. The term is the subject of many folk etymologies, discussed at the Wikipedia entry.
The jeweler confirmed that the diamond was the real McCoy and not a synthetic stone.
After years of searching for an authentic antique, the collector was relieved to find that the painting was indeed the real McCoy.
- 01
for real and for true
Genuinely; truly.
- 02
in a real state
Synonym of in a right state.
- 03
keep it real
In the imperative, an exhortation used as a departing salutation.
- 04
real deal
A thing or person that is genuine, authentic, or worthy of serious regard.
- 05
real live
Authentic and indisputably present.
- 06
real quick
quickly, right away
- 07
will the real someone please stand up
A request for the real person or thing to be identified from among others that are similar.