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Second best
01
deuxième meilleur, deuxième
the competitor who finishes second
02
deuxième choix, deuxième meilleure option
an alternative that is not as fulfilling or desirable as other options that one has
Idiom
InformalWhat is the origin of the idiom "second best" and when to use it?
The idiom "second best" originated from the notion of ranking options or choices in terms of preference or desirability. The term "second best" refers to an alternative that falls short in comparison to other options, lacking the qualities or fulfillment provided by a superior choice. It implies that while the alternative may still have some merit or value, it is not the ideal or optimal selection. In other words, this idiom is commonly used to express the idea of settling for a less desirable option when the preferred choice is unavailable or unattainable.
Example
I wanted to buy the latest smartphone, but due to budget constraints, I settled for a second-best model.
Je voulais acheter le dernier smartphone, mais en raison de contraintes budgétaires, j'ai opté pour un modèle de deuxième choix.
Sarah was disappointed when she did n't get the lead role in the play; instead, she was given the second-best part.
Sarah était déçue de ne pas avoir obtenu le rôle principal dans la pièce ; à la place, elle a reçu la deuxième meilleure option.
