pound for pound
1
used to describe the comparative skill, strength, or ability of athletes regardless of their size or weight, especially in boxing
- Pound for pound, she's one of the strongest athletes on the team.
- The boxer is considered pound for pound one of the best in the world due to his exceptional technique and power.
- The gymnast is pound for pound one of the strongest athletes in the competition, able to perform incredible feats of strength.
- Despite his size, he's considered pound for pound one of the toughest fighters in the boxing world.
2
used to compare two things based on their qualities or abilities, without considering their size or scale
The origin of the idiom "pound for pound" can be traced back to combat sports, specifically boxing. In boxing, fighters are categorized into weight classes, and rankings are determined based on their performance within those classes. It implies that if the fighters were the same weight, the one being referred to would still possess exceptional skills or abilities. Figuratively, the idiom is primarily used to apply to various contexts, highlighting the hidden or underlying qualities of something that may appear significantly different on the surface.
- Pound for pound, this restaurant offers the best value for money in the city.
- Pound for pound, the small boutique produces the most exquisite handmade jewelry in the region.
- The small coffee shop may not have the grandeur of a large chain, but pound for pound, it serves the best coffee in town.
- The compact car may not have the same horsepower as a sports car, but pound for pound, it offers impressive fuel efficiency.
- The novel may be short in length, but pound for pound, it delivers a powerful and thought-provoking story.