a far cry from {sth}
1
a significant difference between two things, often in a disappointing or unfavorable way
The idiom "a far cry from something" originates from the concept of using vocal communication to convey distance. In its literal sense, a cry or shout can be heard from varying distances depending on its loudness and clarity. Figuratively, the phrase is used to signify a significant difference or contrast between two things, suggesting that the current situation or object being referred to is distant or drastically different from a previous or expected state.
- The dilapidated house they purchased was a far cry from the beautiful, renovated home they had envisioned.
- The new employee's performance was a far cry from the impressive qualifications listed on their resume.
- The hastily prepared meal was a far cry from the culinary masterpiece they had tasted at the restaurant.
- The low-budget film was a far cry from the visually stunning blockbusters that dominated the box office.
- The current political climate is a far cry from the unity and bipartisanship that the nation needs.