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hold a candle to somebody or something
to hold a candle to somebody or something
01
to be even remotely comparable in quality, skill, etc.
![to [hold] a candle to {sb/sth} definition and meaning](https://cdn.langeek.co/photo/41538/original/?type=jpeg "to [hold] a candle to {sb/sth} definition and meaning")
Idiom
InformalWhat is the origin of the idiom "hold a candle to someone or something" and when to use it?
The idiom "hold a candle to someone or something" is believed to have originated from the practice of using candles to provide light during nighttime work, such as reading or sewing. In this context, an assistant might hold a candle to help the person working see better. If the assistant was skilled and experienced, they would be able to hold the candle steady, which would make it easier for the person working to see properly. Over time, the phrase evolved to become a metaphor for someone or something that is comparable or nearly as good as another person or thing.
Example
No other restaurant in town holds a candle to this one when it comes to quality of food.
He's a brilliant scientist, but he holds a candle to the devil when it comes to ethics.
No other restaurant in town can hold a candle to this one when it comes to quality of food.
No other dictator in history can hold a candle to the devil when it comes to sheer cruelty.
The new employee isn't holding a candle to the senior staff members in terms of experience and knowledge.
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