a big frog in a small pond
a big frog in a small pond
A situation in which one person has more power, influence, knowledge, or experience than others within a small group. It often implies that the person may not have as much clout in "a bigger pond," i.e., a larger group or arena of some kind. Since she was so popular and well-known within the walls of her small high school, Jennifer was used to being a big frog in a small pond. Once she started attending a large state university, however, she suddenly realized that it would take a lot more effort to make friends. His coarse management style has made it evident that he was used to being a big frog in a small pond. That attitude certainly won't be tolerated by anyone at his new company.
See also: big, frog, pond, small
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
big frog in a small pond
an important person in the midst of less important people. (Alludes to a large frog that dominates a small pond with few challengers.) I'd rather be a big frog in a small pond than the opposite. The trouble with Tom is that he's a big frog in a small pond. He needs more competition.
See also: big, frog, pond, small
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs.
frog in a small pond
see under big fish in a small pond.
See also: frog, pond, small
The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer.
a big frog in a small pond
AMERICANIf someone is a big frog in a small pond, they are one of the most important and influential people in a small organization or group. He liked being a big frog in a small pond. Note: The usual British expression for this is a big fish in a small pond.
See also: big, frog, pond, small
Collins COBUILD Idioms Dictionary, 3rd ed.
- a big fish in a small pond
- big fish in a small pond
- big frog in a small pond
- frog in a small pond
- pond
- biggest frog in the puddle
- hanger-on
- like talking to a wall
- one man's loss is another man's gain
- one person's loss is another person's gain