Deliver the goods

Meaning

"Deliver the goods" is an idiomatic expression that means to perform or complete a task successfully, especially by meeting a deadline or achieving a desired result. The phrase can also imply that someone has fulfilled their promise or obligation. The expression may have originated from the commercial practice of delivering goods or products to a customer on time and in good condition.

Usage

• She had been given the task of organizing the conference, but she failed to deliver the goods.
• He promised to help me with my project, but he didn't deliver the goods.
• The company delivered the goods by exceeding their sales targets for the quarter.
• Despite facing numerous challenges, the team delivered the goods and won the tournament.
• The manager was disappointed when the team failed to deliver the goods on time.

Roots and History

The origin of the idiom is uncertain, but it may have arisen from the practice of delivering goods or products to a customer. Over time, the expression has taken on a more general meaning of fulfilling a task successfully or meeting a deadline. The idiom may have also been influenced by the idea of "delivering the goods" in a sales context, where a successful sale is seen as "delivering the goods".

Synonyms in English

• Achieve the goal
• Complete the task
• Succeed in the endeavor
• Fulfill the promise
• Meet the deadline

Synonyms in other languages

• French: livrer le coup de grâce (to deliver the knockout blow)
• German: erfüllen (to fulfill)
• Spanish: cumplir con (to comply with)
• Italian: svolgere il dovere (to perform one's duty)
• Japanese: 成果の達成 (to achieve success)

Similar Idioms

• day of reckoning

• drop off

• dab hand