What does “Can't hold a candle” mean?

"Can't hold a candle" means to not be as skilled or competent as someone else.

What context can I use the in?

Example

He can't hold a candle to her when it comes to playing the piano.

Example

I may be good at math, but I can't hold a candle to my sister who is a math genius.

Example

The new employee can't hold a candle to the experienced ones in terms of productivity

Is “Can't hold a candle” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Can't hold a candle” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.

How would I use “Can't hold a candle” effectively in context?

You can use "Can't hold a candle" to compare someone's skills or abilities unfavorably to another person who is much better. It emphasizes the difference in competence or expertise. For example, if someone is not as good at cooking as their friend, you might say, 'He can't hold a candle to her when it comes to cooking.'

1Sports
The rookie player can't hold a candle to the seasoned veterans on the team.
2Academics
I may be good at math, but I can't hold a candle to my sister who is a math genius.
3Work
The new employee can't hold a candle to the experienced ones in terms of productivity.

Similar phrases to “Can't hold a candle”:

Not a patch on

To be significantly worse or less skilled than someone or something

Example

Her singing is not a patch on her sister's beautiful voice.

Pale in comparison

To be much less impressive or significant when compared to someone or something else

Example

His achievements pale in comparison to those of his older brother.

Out of one's league

To be too good or skilled for someone else to compete with or be compared to

Example

She's way out of his league when it comes to intelligence and wit.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Can't hold a candle” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Can't hold a candle" is unknown.

Is “Can't hold a candle” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "Can't hold a candle" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to express the idea that someone is not as skilled or competent as another person.

What tone does “Can't hold a candle” have?

"Can't hold a candle" conveys a tone of comparison and inferiority. It is used to highlight the difference in abilities between two individuals.

Can “Can't hold a candle” be used in informal and formal settings?

Yes, "Can't hold a candle" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a versatile expression that conveys the idea of comparing someone's skills or abilities unfavorably. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, meetings, or professional correspondence.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'He can't hold a candle to her when it comes to playing the piano.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'He can't hold a candle!' to imply someone's lack of skill compared to another person.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

not measure up to
be inferior to
fall short of
lack in comparison to
be outclassed by