just the ticket

Idioms and Phrases

Also, that's the ticket . Exactly what is needed; exactly right. For example, This van is just the ticket for carrying all our luggage , or That's the ticket—you're handling that chain saw very well . The second phrase dates from the early 1800s, and the first is slightly newer. The exact allusion is disputed—it could be to a winning lottery ticket, a price tag for merchandise, or, as one writer suggests, a corruption of the French word etiquette for “appropriate behavior.” For a synonym, see way to go .

Example Sentences

But if you like the idea of a knockout side dish with a certain savory je ne sais quoi, this is just the ticket.

From Salon

In those cases, this folding saw is just the ticket.

From Los Angeles Times

So hiking, diving, caving and other activities on secluded volcanic islands 900 or so miles from the rest of Europe seemed to be just the ticket.

From Washington Post

A Florentine apothecary’s rose-scented deodorant for cats and dogs may be just the ticket.

From New York Times

A blend of barbera and bonarda, the wine offered high acidity and vibrant red fruit flavor — just the ticket for the roasted mushrooms.

From Washington Post

Related Words

• achievement
• attainment
• contentment
• gratification
• perfection
• realization