Cut somebody down to size

Pro Tip 1/3

Confrontational Tone

Using this phrase can be seen as confrontational as it implies criticizing someone's arrogance or attitude.

During the meeting, Jenna cut him down to size for his dismissive comments.

Pro Tip 2/3

Informal Context

It's typically used in informal situations among peers or familiar individuals, rather than formal settings.

At the family reunion, my cousin cut me down to size when I boasted about my job excessively.

Pro Tip 3/3

Use Sparingly

Overusing the phrase in conversation can make you appear rude or abrasive.

After the third time she cut her brother down to size, the rest of the family began to see her as antagonistic.