Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
put-someone-to-shame
idiom
/pʊt ˈsʌm.wʌn tə ʃeɪm/
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Definition
To make someone feel embarrassed or inferior by demonstrating a higher level of skill, ability, or quality.
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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.
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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.
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Synonyms
- outshine
- surpass
- humiliate