hold a candle UK /ˌhəʊ̯ld ə ˈkan.dəl/US /ˌhoʊ̯ld ə ˈkæn.dəl/ verb1 •To compare; to be even remotely of the same quality, skill, etc. as another.The old computer just doesn't hold a candle to the latest models. formsheld a candle · holden a candle · holding a candle · holds a candle
