be a cut above

be a cut above

To be noticeably superior to (others within the same field or category). With his vast experience and charming personality, it was clear to see that Gary was a cut above the rest of the candidates who interviewed for the sales position. An entrant's essay must be a cut above for it to win our top prize.

See also: above, cut

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2015 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.