can't hold a candle to

Related to word: hold

Idiom

Definition

  1. To be significantly inferior to someone or something else in quality or ability.

    • The service at this new restaurant can't hold a candle to their other branches.

    • The young pianist is talented, but his skills can't hold a candle to the old masters.

    • The special effects in this movie are okay, but they can't hold a candle to last year's blockbuster.