[Idiom] WORK CUT OUT. - Prepare for Major Achievements Ahead
Work cut out.
/wɜrk kʌt aʊt/
Task clearly defined; a lot of work to do.
Having your "work cut out" means you have a clearly defined task ahead that will require considerable effort. Originally, this referred to fabric that had been cut out and was ready to be sewn. In modern usage, it implies that the scope of the task is understood and likely challenging, but not insurmountable. It is often used to describe situations where the path forward is clear but requires significant dedication and effort.
Example Sentences
I have my work cut out for me this week.
The person has a lot to accomplish and it will require significant effort.
She had her work cut out with the new project.
She is faced with a challenging assignment that will demand a lot of her efforts and skills.
He realized he had his work cut out for him when he saw the pile of files on his desk.
Seeing the large amount of work awaiting him, he realized the effort needed to manage it all is substantial.