to punch above one's weight

Definition & Meaning of "punch above one's weight"in English

to punch above one's weight

PHRASE

to succeed or try to succeed in doing something that often demands more power, ability, money, etc. than one has

Dialect

British

to [punch] above {one's} weight definition and meaning

Examples

Singapore punches above its weight in the world economy.

The small-town mayor has been punching above her weight recently, going head-to-head with federal lawmakers over the issue of immigration reform.

to be romantically involved with someone who is considered more socially desirable than oneself

Idiom

Informal

What is the origin of the idiom "punch above one's weight" and when to use it?

The origin of the idiom "punch above one's weight" is unknown, but it is thought to have originated in the boxing ring. In boxing, a fighter who is shorter or lighter than his opponent is said to be "punching above his weight" if he is able to defeat his opponent. It can also be used to describe a romantic relationship in which one partner is perceived as being more attractive or successful than the other.

Examples

He feels like he's punching above his weight dating someone so accomplished.

She joked that she's definitely punching above her weight with her new partner.