head and shoulders above someone

Etymology:

• The phrase was used earlier in the 19th century referring to height. A tall person distinctively stands out among people with short height. Later the expression was meant to describe any talent and skill one has that is not found in others, that makes him distinct and superior to others. For instance, a short heighted man might surpass a tall person in any skill such as dancing, maths, writing stories or any other similar talent.