have something down to the T (to the tee)
Definition: Perfectly accurate and precise. People use this idiom to
explain that something or someone has everything accounted for, down to the
smallest detail.
Similar phrases are to a T, follow to a T, down to the T, etc. All of these spellings are
sometimes spelled with the word tee instead of the letter T.
For
example,
- To
a tee.
- Follow
to a tee.
- Down
to the tee.
- Down
to a tee.
Examples of Down to a T
Here is an
example that involves two college students working on a partner project.
Robin: Okay, it looks like our
essay and PowerPoint presentation are complete. Now we just have to proofread
it and make sure everything is perfect.
Harry: Why are you so worried? We did a great job. We’ll definitely get an A or
a B for a grade.
Robin: I know, but I’m failing this
class. This is the last chance I have to bring my score up to a passing level.
I need a score of 99% or above to pass.
Harry: Oh, wow!
Robin: I know. That’s why I need to make
sure all our facts are accurate, and we’ve followed the rubric the teacher gave
us down to a T.
In
this dialogue, two coworkers are discussing the cleaning crew at their place of
employment.
Mal: I’m so glad they hired Janet to be
the head of the cleaning department. She is so organized, and she manages her
team so well!
Xiomara: I know! The office always looks
so tidy. She attends to every minute detail, down to a t!
