punch above one's weight

/pˈʌntʃ əbˌʌv wˈɒnz wˈeɪt/

/pˈʌntʃ əbˌʌv wˈʌnz wˈeɪt/

[phrase]

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

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

to be in a sexual or romantic relationship with someone who is perceived by others as one's superior in many different ways

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

1. Villa have punched above their weight all season and it will be a remarkable achievement if they finish fifth.

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

3. Some people say she's punching above her weight.

4. He definitely punches above his weight in the dating world.

Nearby words

go to the ends of the earth