hold a candle to


hold a candle to (someone or something)

To compare to someone or something; to be as good or desirable as someone or something. Often used in the negative to mean the opposite. I'm really surprised that the sequel holds a candle to the original. John's fast all right, but he can't hold a candle to Louise!See also: candle, hold

hold a candle to

To compare favorably with: This film doesn't hold a candle to his previous ones.See also: candle, hold