Be/come a poor second, third, etc.

phrase

To be worse than someone or something else or not as important.

In terms of popularity, football comes first and all other sports are a poor second.
Visual representation of "be/come a poor second, third, etc." - To be worse than someone or something else or not as important

Often appears as...

  • comes a poor second
  • is a poor second

Usage tips

Idiomatic

phrase

To be worse than someone or something else or not as important.

In terms of popularity, football comes first and all other sports are a poor second.
Visual representation of "be/come a poor second, third, etc." - To be worse than someone or something else or not as important

Often appears as...

  • comes a poor second
  • is a poor second

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "be/come a poor second, third, etc."
LampPro Tip 1/3

Comparison Implicit

This phrase implies comparison where something doesn't measure up to a standard.

Illustration for Comparison Implicit
She's a gifted singer, but in terms of dance, she comes a poor second.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Non-literal Ranking

The 'second, third, etc.' does not always refer to actual positions but signifies lesser importance.

Illustration for Non-literal Ranking
Despite his efforts, he was a poor second in her life compared to her career.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Subjectivity

What 'comes a poor second' can often be subjective and vary by individual opinion.

Illustration for Subjectivity
To gourmet chefs, fast food often comes a poor second to a home-cooked meal.
Visual representation of the word "Be/come a poor second, third, etc."

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