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Second best
01
準優勝, セカンドベスト
the competitor who finishes second
02
二番目の選択, 次善の策
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.
最新のスマートフォンを買いたかったが、予算の制約のため、次善の策として二番目の選択を選んだ。
Sarah was disappointed when she did n't get the lead role in the play; instead, she was given the second-best part.
サラは劇で主役を取れなかったとき、失望した。その代わりに、彼女は二番目の選択を与えられた。
