put someone in their place

Meaning: To remind someone firmly that they are not as important as they think.

Language: English

Literally: (Already vivid in English)

Example: “The old waiter put the rude customer in his place with one sentence.”

Category: Daily Life

Origin: "Place" means one's position in a social order. The phrase is common from the 19th century.

Equivalents in other languages

play for high stakes — To take part in something where a great deal can be won or lost.
take liberties — To behave too freely or presumptuously.
give someone what for — To scold or punish someone severely.
like talking to a brick wall — Speaking to someone who does not listen or respond.
have a thing for someone — To be attracted to someone.
a vicious circle — A situation where one problem causes another, which makes the first worse.

cool as a cucumber — Very calm, especially under pressure.
in broad daylight — Openly, during the day, when anyone could see.
not my circus, not my monkeys — It's not my problem, so I'm staying out of it.
too many cooks spoil the broth — When too many people work on something, the result is worse.
birds of a feather flock together — People with similar interests or character tend to spend time together.
wish the ground would swallow one up — To feel so embarrassed that one wants to disappear.

Every light has its shadow. — Visibility and prominence inevitably create darkness elsewhere; success or advantage alwa…
Like will to like. — People naturally gravitate toward and trust those who share their values, interests, or c…
Little bodies have large souls. — Children possess emotional depth and moral capacity that rivals or exceeds that of adults…