Par for the course
This idiom means that a situation or outcome is exactly what one might typically expect, especially in the context of minor setbacks, average results, or something seen as normal or standard. If it is above par, it is better, and if it is below par, it is worse.
The phrase originates from the game of golf, where "par" is the standard number of strokes a skilled player is expected to take to complete a specific hole or the entire course. When something is "par for the course" in everyday conversation, it usually carries a slightly negative or neutral connotation of an unsurprising, sometimes undesirable, but normal outcome.
"He said long hours are par for the course in this industry".
"I missed three questions on the exam, but that's par for the course for me".
"Security checks at airports are par for the course".
