pale in comparison to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "pale in comparison to" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to express that one thing is significantly less impressive or important than another. Example: "The new smartphone's features pale in comparison to its predecessor's innovative technology."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Today's luxury stories pale in comparison to their own past.

The Guardian

But they pale in comparison to Ralph, Jack and Piggy.

The New York Times

They even pale in comparison to tennis players.

The Guardian - Opinion

But Labor's mistakes pale in comparison to those made by the Coalition.

The Guardian - Opinion

The figures still pale in comparison to the 11.3percentt unemployment rate for blue-collar workers.

The New York Times

The costs of reducing emissions pale in comparison to the possible risks the world faces.

The Guardian - Opinion

Do their leadership skills pale in comparison to their political and private sector comrades?

The Guardian

From a basketball standpoint, those problems pale in comparison to the loss of McDyess.

The New York Times - Sports

But those experiences pale in comparison to the real VR deal.

The Guardian - Tech

But that news coverage will pale in comparison to a full-blown criminal trial.

The New York Times

However, their concerns pale in comparison to the destructive nature of this tax on family businesses.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "pale in comparison to", ensure that you clearly establish both subjects being compared to provide context for the reader. For example, avoid saying 'His efforts pale in comparison' without specifying what they are being compared to.

Common error

Avoid overusing "pale in comparison to" when the difference between the two subjects is not substantial. Using it for minor differences can weaken the impact of the comparison.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "pale in comparison to" functions as a comparative idiom. According to Ludwig AI, it's a valid expression to indicate that one thing is less significant or impressive than another. It serves to draw a contrast, emphasizing the superior qualities of one subject over another.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Reference

3%

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "pale in comparison to" is a commonly used and grammatically correct comparative phrase that effectively conveys the idea that one thing is significantly less impressive or important than another. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's frequently found in news and media contexts but is applicable across a variety of registers. When using this phrase, ensure clear context for both subjects being compared to maximize its impact and avoid overuse in situations where the difference is minimal. Alternative phrases such as "is overshadowed by" or "is dwarfed by" can offer nuanced ways to express similar comparisons.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

pales in relation to

A more formal and slightly less common variant of the original phrase.

is insignificant compared to

Directly states the lack of importance of one thing relative to another.

fades in comparison to

Suggests that one thing loses its appeal or intensity when compared to another.

is dwarfed by

Emphasizes the significant size or importance difference between two things.

is diminished by

Implies that one thing is made smaller or less significant due to the presence of another.

is overshadowed by

Focuses on how one thing is hidden or made less prominent by the presence of something else.

is outshone by

Focuses on how one thing is surpassed in brilliance or excellence by another.

cannot hold a candle to

An idiomatic expression highlighting the inferiority of one thing compared to another.

is trumped by

Indicates that one thing is decisively surpassed or defeated by another.

is second-rate compared to

Highlights the lower quality or status of one thing in relation to another.

FAQs

How can I use "pale in comparison to" in a sentence?

Use "pale in comparison to" to highlight that one thing is significantly less impressive or important than another. For example: "The candidate's promises "pale in comparison to" her opponent's proven track record".

What are some alternatives to saying "pale in comparison to"?

You can use alternatives like "is overshadowed by", "is dwarfed by", or "is insignificant compared to" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to use "pale in comparison with" or "pale in comparison to"?

"Pale in comparison to" is the more common and widely accepted phrasing. While "pale in comparison with" isn't grammatically incorrect, it is less frequently used and might sound less natural to some speakers.

What does it mean when something is said to "pale in comparison to" something else?

It means that the first thing is significantly less impressive, important, or significant than the second thing. The comparison highlights a notable difference in quality or impact.