put the beggar on the gentleman
To follow up something good with something inferior.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“Don't put the beggar on the gentleman with that cheap dessert.”
“The main course was delicious, but serving instant coffee really put the beggar on the gentleman.”
“After the grand opening ceremony featured a world-class orchestra, the organizers put the beggar on the gentleman by hiring a mediocre local band for the finale.”
- 01
beggars can't be choosers
Something is better than nothing: those who can't provide for themselves should accept whatever help is available.
- 02
lipstick on a pig
To make superficial or cosmetic changes to something in a doomed attempt to disguise its fundamental flaws.
- 03
not to put too fine a point on it
Used to apologize for a possibly impolite statement one is making; to put it bluntly; to express it in plain terms.
- 04
put a band-aid on a bullet wound
To inadequately treat a serious situation.
- 05
put a blanket over
Make (something) seem less serious.
- 06
put a bug in someone's ear
To make a small suggestion or give a hint that causes the listener to act.
- 07
put a damper on
To stop people from enjoying an activity.
- 08
put a foot wrong
To make a mistake.
Last updated August 10, 2026