The poor man’s somebody/something

usgb
phrase

A cheaper or less desirable substitute for something else.

His old, beat-up car is the poor man's limousine.
Visual representation of "the poor man’s somebody/something" - A cheaper or less desirable substitute for something else.

Often appears as...

  • the poor man's version
  • the poor man's substitute

Usage tips

Idiomatic

phrase

Someone who is similar to a famous or rich person, but not as successful, rich or famous.

He's been called the poor man's Brad Pitt.
Visual representation of "the poor man’s somebody/something" - Someone who is similar to a famous or rich person, but not as successful, rich or famous.

Often appears as...

  • the poor man's celebrity
  • the poor man's actor

Usage tips

Colloquial

phrase

A cheaper or less desirable substitute for something else.

His old, beat-up car is the poor man's limousine.
Visual representation of "the poor man’s somebody/something" - A cheaper or less desirable substitute for something else.

Often appears as...

  • the poor man's version
  • the poor man's substitute

Usage tips

Idiomatic

phrase

Someone who is similar to a famous or rich person, but not as successful, rich or famous.

He's been called the poor man's Brad Pitt.
Visual representation of "the poor man’s somebody/something" - Someone who is similar to a famous or rich person, but not as successful, rich or famous.

Often appears as...

  • the poor man's celebrity
  • the poor man's actor

Usage tips

Colloquial

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "the poor man’s somebody/something"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Cultural Perception

Some cultures might find comparing items or people as lesser versions offensive. Use with caution.

Illustration for Cultural Perception
Be mindful when saying his artwork is the poor man's Picasso.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Literal Substitute

It's often used to describe something fulfilling a similar role but with less prestige or quality.

Illustration for Literal Substitute
This shared office space is the poor man's private studio.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Humor or Sarcasm

The phrase can be humorous or sarcastic, depending on context and tone of voice.

Illustration for Humor or Sarcasm
Calling his bike the poor man's sports car got a good laugh.
Visual representation of the word "The poor man’s somebody/something"

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