not hold a stick to (someone or something)

not hold a stick to (someone or something)

To not be nearly as good, desirable, or impressive as someone or something else. The sequel isn't too bad, but it doesn't hold a stick to the original. John's a nice enough guy, he just can't hold a stick our last supervisor.
See also: hold, not, stick
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

not hold a stick to someone or something

 and not hold a candle to someone or something
Fig. not to be nearly as good as someone or something. Sally is much faster than Bob. Bob doesn't hold a stick to Sally. This TV doesn't hold a candle to that one. That one is much better.
See also: hold, not, stick
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs.
See also:
  • not hold a stick to
  • not hold a candle to (someone or something)
  • not in the same league as (someone or something)
  • not in the same league with
  • not in the same league with (someone or something)
  • doesn't hold a candle (to someone or something)
  • hold a candle to, not
  • cannot hold a candle to
  • cannot hold a candle to somebody/something
  • can't hold a candle to