Can't hold a candle to it

Meaning

This phrase means that something is inferior to something else being compared to it. It is often used to describe a person or object that does not measure up to a previous standard.

Judgmental, definitive

Used in a sentence

• The new restaurant is fine, but it can't hold a candle to the Italian place that used to be downtown.
• That actor is okay, but he can't hold a candle to the legends of the golden age.
• My homemade pie is good, but it can't hold a candle to your grandmother's recipe.