The small team often punches above its weight in competitions.
punch above one's weight
idiomTo (attempt to) achieve or perform at a higher level than would be expected based on one's preparation, attributes, rank, or past accomplishments.
Origin
disputed originAn allusion to a boxer who punches more powerfully than other boxers in the same weight class.
Even though our company is quite small, we often punch above our weight when competing against much larger firms.
Despite lacking significant funding or resources, the startup consistently punched above its weight, securing contracts that industry giants had long considered their own.
- 01
abound in one's own sense
To follow one’s own inclinations and opinions.
- 02
ace up one's sleeve
A surprise advantage of which others are not aware.
- 03
act one's age
To behave in a manner appropriate to one's age.
- 04
act one's age, not one's shoe size
Synonym of act one's age (“to behave in a mature manner; to avoid being childish”).
- 05
afraid of one's own shadow
Exceptionally timid.
- 06
air one's dirty laundry in public
To reveal one's sordid secrets to the public.
- 07
air one's dirty linen in public
Synonym of air one's dirty laundry in public.
- 08
albatross around one's neck
A characteristic, possession, associate, or previous deed that hinders one's ability to succeed.