🕯️ Can’t Hold a Candle To 🏮
Definition: When someone or something is said to “can’t hold a candle to” another, it means they are not nearly as good, skillful, or impressive as the person or thing being compared to.
Example Sentences:
- Jane’s singing is good, but she can’t hold a candle to Adele.
- The new smartphone is decent, but it can’t hold a candle to the latest version.
Related Terms:
- Not in the same league: – Used similarly to show that one person/thing does not match up with another.
- Second-fiddle: – Of lesser importance or quality.
- Pales in comparison: – Significantly less impressive in relation.
Synonyms:
- Inferior
- Subpar
- Lesser
Antonyms:
- Superior
- Unmatched
- Incomparable
Humor-filled Quote: “I love my dog, but when it comes to digging holes, he can’t hold a candle to the local gophers.”
Proverbs: “The pupils are no better than the teachers.”
Literature, Songs, Poetry, Movies:
- Literature: Great Expectations by Charles Dickens – Comparisons between Pip and Estella.
- Songs: “Anything You Can Do” from Annie Get Your Gun – A musical duel of skills.
- Movies: Amadeus – The comparison between composers Salieri and Mozart.
- Poetry: “A Tale of Two Cities” by Charles Dickens – The tale of vastly different lives.
Quizzes
### Which phrase is a real idiom?
- [x] Can't hold a candle to
- [ ] Not even close to my candelabra
- [ ] Nailing the coffin lid
- [ ] Dancing with daylight
> **Explanation:** "Can't hold a candle to" is the correct idiom, meaning to be not nearly as good. The others are mere fancies of the mind.
### What does the idiom "can't hold a candle to" mean?
- [ ] To help someone by candlelight
- [x] To be considerably inferior to someone or something
- [ ] To illuminate a room poorly
- [ ] To hold on tightly
> **Explanation:** The idiom implies a significant inferiority to the person or thing being compared.
### True or false: 'Can't hold a candle to' is an idiom often used in competitive contexts.
- [x] True
- [ ] False
> **Explanation:** True, it's frequently used to compare competitors or rivals, often highlighting one’s inferior quality.
### Choose the correct idiom used to express something is inferior?
- [x] Can't hold a candle to
- [ ] Light the way forward
- [ ] Burning the midnight oil
- [ ] Glimmering hope
> **Explanation:** "Can't hold a candle to" expresses inferiority, making it the accurate choice.
Farewell Thought: In the grand performance of life, remember, it’s not about holding the candle to others but about shining your own light brightly! 🌟
—Flame Brightly, 2023
