SECOND BEST Meaning and
Definition
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The term "second best" is often used to describe something or someone that is ranked just below or in a lower position compared to the very best option or alternative. It signifies a close runner-up, falling short of being the absolute top choice. The concept of "second best" implies a hierarchy or a scale of preferences, with the foremost or optimal choice taking precedence.
"Second best" can pertain to various aspects of life, such as achievements, performances, or even personal qualities. It suggests that the individual, item, or outcome being referred to is commendable but lacks the exceptional qualities possessed by the best. It is a recognition that while the second-best option may still be highly regarded, it does not possess the outstanding characteristics that elevate it to the pinnacle of excellence.
This term can evoke a sense of disappointment or frustration, especially when one falls just short of attaining the best possible outcome. It can also be associated with compromise, as selecting the second-best option often entails sacrificing some desired features or attributes in favor of practicality, availability, or other constraints.
In summary, "second best" refers to an alternative or choice that is of commendable quality but falls just short of being the very best. It highlights the absence of outstanding qualities, often leaving individuals or objects in a position below the top-ranking option.
Common Misspellings for SECOND BEST
Etymology of SECOND BEST
The etymology of the phrase "second best" can be understood by examining the origins of its constituent words.
The word "second" comes from the Latin word "secundus", which means "following" or "next". It ultimately derives from the Latin word "sequi", meaning "to follow".
The word "best" originated from the Old English word "bæst", which is the superlative form of "good". "Best" has cognates in other Germanic languages, such as Old High German "bezzist" and Dutch "beste".
When the words "second" and "best" are combined to form the phrase "second best", it conveys the meaning of something that is next in rank or value, but not the absolute or ultimate. It implies being in a position below or inferior to the one ranked first or highest.
Idioms with the word SECOND BEST
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come off second best
The idiom "come off second best" means to end up in a less favorable or less successful position or outcome as compared to someone else or a different entity. It implies a situation where one's efforts, skills, or abilities fall short or are surpassed by another party, resulting in a less satisfactory result.
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second best
The idiom "second best" refers to something that is not the best or most ideal option, but is still acceptable or satisfactory. It implies that there is something or someone better, but the second best choice is still a good alternative.
Similar spelling words for SECOND BEST
- second gear,
- second banana,
- second fiddle,
- second nature,
- second joint,
- second base,
- secondhand,
- second-rate,
- second person,
- second crusade,
- secondary cell,
- seasoned,
- secondary,
- second period,
- second class,
- second sacker,
- second coming,
- secondment,
- second deck,
- second estate,
- second balcony,
- second half,
- second sight,
- second-rater,
- second cousin,
- second thought,
- seconder,
- second-sighted,
- second-guess,
- second-best,
- second baseman,
- second-class,
- second-string,
- secondly,
- second hand,
- secondguess,
- Second Empire,
- second moment,
- second power,
- second growth,
- Second Reich,
- second stomach,
- second advent,
- second wind.
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