English [ edit ]

Etymology [ edit ]

Probably from the custom of apprentices to a trade holding a candle so the master worker could see clearly. A person who was not even fit for such a simple task was worthless.

Pronunciation [ edit ]

Audio (AU)

Verb [ edit ]

hold a candle (third-person singular simple present holds a candle, present participle holding a candle, simple past and past participle held a candle)

( 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.

Usage notes [ edit ]

Typically used in the negative when something does not compare, as in the example.

Translations [ edit ]