# cut down to size

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/cut-down-to-size
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To humble or humiliate, especially someone or something that is perceived as overly domineering or too proud.

## Examples

- His arrogant attitude really needs to be cut down to size.
- The new manager tried to act like he owned the place, but the team quickly cut him down to size.
- After the champion boasted about his inevitable victory, his opponent delivered a stunning defeat that effectively cut him down to size.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.