streets behind
Far inferior, much lesser.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“My old phone is streets behind this new model.”
“The new restaurant is popular, but the service is streets behind what we expected.”
“While the company's latest software update shows promise, its user interface remains streets behind the industry standard, frustrating many long-term customers.”
The term was coined as a direct lexical opposite to the established idiom *streets ahead*. No specific date of origin or primary author is recorded for the formation.
- 01
down the road, not across the street
Of the technique for committing suicide, along the radial artery rather than across the wrist from side to side.
- 02
easy street
Chiefly preceded by on: a carefree lifestyle, especially as a result of becoming wealthy, or an easy situation.
- 03
hit the streets
To go out in search of something or for a specific purpose.
- 04
jump street
The starting point; the very beginning.
- 05
keep off the streets
To inspire or cause (someone) to avoid idleness, unemployment, poverty, or antisocial behavior.
- 06
man in the street
Synonym of man on the street.
- 07
man on the street
An ordinary member of the general public, especially one who lacks special expertise.
- 08
street appeal
Curb appeal.
Last updated August 10, 2026