"Was match for" is a phrase used to indicate that someone or something possessed the necessary skills, abilities, or qualities to successfully compete or confront someone or something else. It suggests that the person or thing being described was able to equal or even surpass the other in terms of strength, capability, or performance.
In a more literal sense, the phrase can be used when describing a competitive event or game. It implies that one participant's skills, tactics, or strategies were equal to or greater than those of their opponent, resulting in a fair or unbalanced match. For example, if a tennis player defeated a highly skilled opponent easily, one could say "He was match for his rival," meaning that he possessed the necessary skills and abilities to contend with and overcome his competitor.
In a broader context, the phrase can also be employed to describe a situation where someone's intellectual, emotional, or psychological strength enables them to successfully address or handle a challenge or adversity. For instance, if someone manages to overcome a difficult obstacle or perform exceptionally well in a high-pressure situation, it can be said that "they were match for the task at hand," indicating that their abilities were sufficient to face and conquer the challenge.
Overall, "was match for" signifies that someone or something possessed the required qualities, skills, or abilities to competently engage, challenge, or overcome another individual or situation, often implying a sense of equality or superiority.
