second fiddle
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
He may have played second fiddle behind France team-mate Mbappe in terms of headlines, but the Bayern Munich winger has been at his creative best so far.
From BBC ● Jun. 24, 2026
None of it is subtle, or second fiddle.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Apr. 16, 2026
Tesla might end up playing second fiddle to another Elon Musk company on its own earnings call.
From MarketWatch ● Jan. 26, 2026
For generations City played second fiddle in their own backyard to United, but they have ruled the roost over their local rivals since Alex Ferguson departed Old Trafford in 2013.
From Barron's ● Jan. 16, 2026
We have played second fiddle to a weaker Power long enough.
From Mysterious Mr. Sabin by E. Phillips (Edward Phillips) Oppenheim
