punch below one's weight

English

Alternative forms

• hit below one's weight

Etymology

An allusion to the sport of boxing, where contenders fight in various weight classes.

Verb

punch below one's weight

1. (idiomatic) To achieve or perform at a level lower than should be expected based on one's preparation, attributes, rank, or past accomplishments.
   • 2001 Sept. 29, "For men who should know better," Telegraph (UK) (retrieved 23 Dec. 2009):

     But the overall effect is flimsy and insubstantial, a gifted writer punching well below his weight.

Synonyms

• underachieve

Antonyms

• overachieve, punch above one's weight