Idiom Breakdown

punch above one's weight

//pʌntʃ əˈbʌv wʌnz weɪt//

Boxing

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Definition

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

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An allusion to a boxer who punches more powerfully than other boxers in the same weight class.

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"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."
"Having spent more than £500,000 on players last summer, Crawley can hardly be classed as minnows but they have still punched way above their weight and this kind of performance means no-one will relish pulling them out of the hat in Sunday's draw."
"2017 Tad the Lost Explorer and the Secret of King Midas I can see why you love her so much. You're definitely punching above your weight."
"Northampton is a town of just 30,000 people, with only five distinct neighborhoods. But stats like that obscure the fact that Northampton has long punched above its weight, culturally."

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