Hold-a-candle Definition

verb

(idiomatic) To compare; to be even remotely of the same quality, skill, etc. as another.

The old computer just doesn't hold a candle to the latest models.
Wiktionary

Origin of Hold-a-candle

  • Probably from the custom of apprentices to a trade holding a candle so the master worker could see clearly. If a person was not even good enough for such a simple task, then they were worthless.

    From Wiktionary

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hold-a-candle