What is the phrase which sounds like "theme to resistance"?

Question

Ever heard someone use this phrase which sounds as if they are actually saying "this is my -theme to resistance-" only the "theme to resistance" part was obviously french? What are they saying, and what does it mean. I've heard the phrase several times and almost exclusively in art circles, but I don't know french so I have no idea what they're saying. But it literally sounds as if they are saying "theme to resistance".

Answer 1

I believe the phrase you're looking for is pièce de résistance.

It translates as an outstanding accomplishment and is often used to indicate "this is my absolute best, the thing on which I worked the hardest".

Most artists are considered to have one: Monet's would be the Waterlilies, Leonardo the Mona Lisa, Michelangelo's, David etc. As with all else in art, this is open to debate.

Interestingly the phrase was originally used to refer to the most substantial dish in a meal.

I hope this solves your puzzle.