What Does “Can’t Hold a Candle to” Mean and How to Use It in IELTS?

The idiom “Can’t hold a candle to” is an expression used to describe someone or something that is not as good as someone or something else. It is infrequently found in language exams such as the IELTS, but understanding and using it can add a layer of sophistication to your language skills.

Synonyms and Antonyms

1. Inferior – /ɪnˈfɪəriə(r)/ – (adjective) Meaning: Not as good as someone or something else. Example: The new model is inferior to the original version.
2. Substandard – /səbˈstændərd/ – (adjective) Meaning: Below the usual or expected standard. Example: The service was substandard compared to their competitors.
3. Mediocre – /ˌmiːdiˈəʊkə(r)/ – (adjective) Meaning: Not very good; of only average standard. Example: The performance was mediocre at best.
4. Unexceptional – /ˌʌnɪkˈsepʃənəl/ – (adjective) Meaning: Not special, not very good. Example: Her skills are unexceptional in comparison to her peers.
5. Superior – /sjuːˈpɪəriə(r)/ – (adjective) (antonym) Meaning: Higher in rank, quality, or importance. Example: This version is superior to the previous one.

Detailed Breakdown

Meaning and Pronunciation

The idiom “Can’t hold a candle to” means that something or someone is not as good or effective as something or someone else. It implies a significant difference in quality or ability.

Pronunciation: /kɑːnt həʊld ə ˈkændl tuː/

Example Sentences:

1. When it comes to cooking, Paul can’t hold a candle to his mother.
2. The sequel can’t hold a candle to the original movie.
3. Her new album can’t hold a candle to her previous work.
4. This smartphone can’t hold a candle to the latest iPhone.
5. The local team can’t hold a candle to the champions in terms of skill.

Idiom

Usage in IELTS

Popularity: This idiom is not usually found in IELTS reading or listening sections but can be highly effective in the speaking and writing components to demonstrate a higher level of language competency.

Writing Task 2 Example

Topic: Compare modern technology to older forms of technology and discuss their impacts.

Sample Answer:
“While smartphones have become ubiquitous in today’s society, they can’t hold a candle to the groundbreaking impact that the invention of the telephone had in its time. Smartphones, though powerful, build upon the foundations laid by earlier technologies.”

Speaking Part 2 Example

Task: Describe a teacher who has influenced you.

Sample Answer:
“I’ve had several remarkable teachers, but none can hold a candle to Mr. Thompson. His ability to make complex topics simple and his genuine passion for teaching set him apart.”

Combining the Keyword with Other Words

1. In cooking, Julia can’t hold a candle to Gordon Ramsay.
2. His latest book is good, but it can’t hold a candle to his first novel.
3. The small cafe can’t hold a candle to the gourmet restaurants in the city.
4. Their vacation home can’t hold a candle to our seaside villa.
5. The imitation brand can’t hold a candle to the original luxury brand.

Related Idioms and Phrases

1. Not in the same league – Meaning: Not nearly as good as something else. Example: This amateur artist is not in the same league as professional painters.
2. Pales in comparison – Meaning: Looks less impressive or important when compared to something else. Example: His work pales in comparison to hers.
3. Falls short of – Meaning: Fails to meet something expected or desired. Example: The movie falls short of expectations.
4. Cannot compare to – Meaning: Not as good as something else. Example: Handmade goods cannot compare to mass-produced items in quantity but surpass them in quality.
5. Not a patch on – Meaning: Not nearly as good as something else. Example: This restaurant is not a patch on the one we visited last week.

Conclusion

Understanding and utilizing idioms like “Can’t hold a candle to” can imbue your language with a nuance that sets it apart in exams such as IELTS. Practice these idioms in speaking and writing to enhance your linguistic repertoire and impress examiners. Happy studying!