With flying colours

This practice was particularly relevant in the Age of Exploration, and prior to the 18th century the phrase[2][3] was used solely as a nautical term.

Similarly, the phrase "sailing under false colours" was a reference to a tactic used by pirates or maritime robbers.

[1] However, this was not limited historically to pirates, as the Royal Navy had used this tactic when chasing Bartholomew Roberts.

[9] "With flying colours" has many variations preceding it, such as to pass..., came out..., and came through...,[9] but all have essentially the same meaning derived from the allusion[4] to nautical triumph or victory,[10][11] honor, or public success.

[13] "Sailing under false colours", consistent with its nautical origin,[14] is another way to express deception,[15] or to mislead or mystify.