Have nothing on somebody

usgb
verb

To not be as good as someone else.

You think you're good at tennis? You have nothing on Maria, she's the best in the school.
Visual representation of "have nothing on somebody" - To not be as good as someone else.

Often appears as...

  • your skills have nothing on mine
  • they have nothing on us

Usage tips

Informal, Disapproving

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "have nothing on somebody"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Comparative Strength

Shows that someone's ability doesn't match up to another's in specific skills or talents.

Illustration for Comparative Strength
You're fast, but you have nothing on Usain Bolt's speed.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Informal Context

Used mostly in informal conversations among friends or on social media.

Illustration for Informal Context
She may be smart, but she has nothing on you when it comes to street smarts.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Hyperbolic Expression

Often an exaggeration, not meant to be taken literally.

Illustration for Hyperbolic Expression
Wow, these cupcakes are amazing, but they have nothing on your grandma's recipe!
Visual representation of the word "Have nothing on somebody"

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