Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
put-someone-to-shame
idiom
/pʊt ˈsʌm.wʌn tə ʃeɪm/
Definition
To make someone feel embarrassed or inferior by demonstrating a higher level of skill, ability, or quality.
Examples
- Her performance in the competition really put all the other contestants to shame.
- The student’s project was so impressive that it put some of the teachers to shame.
- When he finished the marathon in record time, he put all the seasoned athletes to shame.
Meaning
The phrase “put someone to shame” is used when someone’s actions or qualities are so impressive that they highlight the shortcomings of another.
Synonyms
- outshine
- surpass
- humiliate
