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.

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.
See also:
  • a big fish in a small pond
  • a big frog in a small pond
  • big fish in a small pond
  • big 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
References in periodicals archive
is a big frog in a small pond competing with an ocean of rivals.