put to shame

Idioms and Phrases

Outdo, eclipse, as in Jane's immaculate kitchen puts mine to shame . This idiom modifies the literal sense of put to shame , that is, “disgrace someone,” to the much milder “cause to feel inferior.” [Mid-1800s]

Example Sentences

In his first public comments since ending the mutiny late on Saturday, Prigozhin repeated his frequent claim that Wagner was the most effective fighting force in Russia "and even the world", and that it put to shame the units that Moscow had sent into Ukraine on Feb. 24, 2022.

From Reuters

That movement was guided by the scripture verse Psalm 127: "Like arrows in the hands of a warrior are sons born in one's youth. Blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them. They will not be put to shame when they contend with their enemies in the gate."

From Salon

The common sense of the 12-year-old — that there is inherent danger in people without training or permits carrying guns — should put to shame the adults who enacted the law heedless to the concerns of law enforcement about its deadly consequences.

From Washington Post

The long-lasting Chinese highways with wide lanes put to shame the German Autobahn, which puts to shame our cheapskate interstate highway system.

From Salon

"Blessed is the man who fills his quiver with them! He shall not be put to shame when he speaks with his enemies in the gate."

From Fox News