take (one) down to size

take (one) down to size

To criticize or undermine one in order to deflate one's ego. A: "That guy always dominates the class discussion with his rambling, inane thoughts, like he's some genius." B: "I know! I wish someone would speak up and take him down to size." The boss really took Sarah down to size during our production meeting.
See also: down, size, take
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
See also:
  • cut (someone or something) down to size
  • cut down to size
  • cut somebody down to size
  • cut someone down to size
  • swallow (one's) pride
  • swallow one's pride
  • swallow pride
  • swallow your pride
  • get past
  • get past (oneself)