pale in comparison
Meaning
To seem much less important, impressive, or significant when compared with something else.
Origin
From the literal sense of “pale” (lose color/fade). By metaphor, one thing’s impact “fades” when set beside something greater; recorded in English from the 18th–19th centuries.
Notes
Often used to stress that one thing is dwarfed by another. Neutral to slightly formal; common in writing and speech. Usually implies B is far more significant/impressive.
Examples
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My worries about the exam pale in comparison to what she’s going through at home.
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The new phone is nice, but it pales in comparison to last year’s model in battery life.
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Our local parks are great, but they pale in comparison to the national parks out west.
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The discount sounded impressive, yet it pales in comparison to the savings you get with a yearly plan.
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His apology was a start, but it paled in comparison to the damage already done.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Typically: “A pales in comparison to/with B” or “A pales by comparison.” The verb can be inflected (pales/paled/paling). Less commonly used as a noun phrase: “pale in comparison.”
Synonyms
- look insignificant next to
- be dwarfed by
- be no match for
- fade by comparison
Antonyms
- compare favorably (to/with)
- hold up well (against)
- measure up (to)