idioms

[Unregistered]

What does "on the ropes" mean? I also am unsure how to interpret "up to par." I know what these mean, but I don't know how to interpret them into words that are in the standard dictionary. I am writing for a non-native English speaker, and I am stuck on these two phrases.

[Gillnetter]

What does "on the ropes" mean? I also am unsure how to interpret "up to par." I know what these mean, but I don't know how to interpret them into words that are in the standard dictionary. I am writing for a non-native English speaker, and I am stuck on these two phrases.

On the ropes - a boxer, losing a fight is pushed against the ropes in the boxing area. When one is about to lose a fight, or anything else, it can be said that the person is "on the ropes."

Up to par - Par is the normal strokes it takes to complete a round of golf. If you are up to par, you are at least average.