fill the bill

Idioms and Phrases

Serve a particular purpose well, as in I was afraid there wasn't enough chicken for everyone, but this casserole will fill the bill , or Karen's testimony just fills the bill, so we're sure to get a conviction . This expression alludes to adding less-known performers to a program (or bill ) in order to make a long enough entertainment. [First half of 1800s]

Example Sentences

The extremists were on the prowl for any excuse to take him down, and come late September, the stopgap funding deal he cut to prevent a government shutdown filled the bill.

From Seattle Times

Pederson’s products filled the bill, and the company was happy to help send them to California, which consumes about 15 percent of the nation’s pork.

From New York Times

“He looks like he can fill the bill well.’

From Seattle Times

It’s lighter and less pungent than Giesen’s regular sauvignon blanc, but it fills the bill for a white wine without the buzz.

From Washington Post

Nothing on the menu filled the bill so they both ordered sodas instead.

From Washington Post

Related Words

• advance
• aid
• assist
• contribute to
• enhance
• favor
• further
• help
• improve
• pay
• pay off
• promote
• serve