cut somebody down to size

cut (someone or something) down to size

1. To criticize one in an attempt to deflate their ego. A: "That guy always dominates the class discussion with his rambling, inane thoughts like he's some genius." B: "I know! It's time to cut him down to size."2. To minimize the importance of something. We need to cut the board down to size before they continue their pattern of overreach.See also: cut, down, size

cut somebody down to ˈsize

show that somebody is less important than they seem or think: Failing his exams has certainly cut him down to size.See also: cut, down, size, somebody