punch above one's weight

English - English

Definition of punch above one's weight in English English dictionary

To achieve or perform at a higher level than would be expected based on one's preparation, attributes, rank, or past accomplishments, or to attempt to do so

Ireland's current commissioner, Charlie McCreevy, is such a high-profile and outspoken figure who punches above his weight in Brussels in the important role of internal market commissioner.

Hyphenation

punch a·bove one's weight

Turkish pronunciation

pʌnç ıbʌv wʌnz weyt

Synonyms

overachieve

Antonyms

underachieve, punch below one's weight

Pronunciation

/ˈpənʧ əˈbəv ˈwənz ˈwāt/ /ˈpʌnʧ əˈbʌv ˈwʌnz ˈweɪt/

Etymology

() An allusion to the sport of boxing.