bring (someone) down a notch (or two)

bring (someone) down a notch (or two)

To reduce or damage someone's ego or pride; to humble or humiliate someone. I'm really glad that pompous oaf lost his court case—maybe that will bring him down a notch or two. It's about time that someone brought Sarah down a notch. Her snotty arrogance is intolerable! I hope having to admit he was wrong brought him down a notch or two—he's convinced that he always knows what's best for everyone.

See also: bring, down, notch

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