The phrase "with a wooden spoon" is an idiomatic expression that means to perform poorly or fail, especially in comparison with others. It suggests that one has done something inadequately or not up to standard, often used when comparing oneself to others who have performed better than them. The origin of the phrase comes from the fact that a wooden spoon is typically the worst performing utensil in a set, and therefore being "beaten with a wooden spoon" means one has come in last or done poorly compared to others.