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.

“Ghost Elephants” is a Werner Herzog film so, unsurprisingly, the titular characters play second fiddle to a man on an arduous quest, with fascinating digressions along the way.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 24, 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

It's now seen as second fiddle to the track and road, but it's the purist form of distance running for me.

From BBC • Jan. 8, 2026

The motif of the tale is the unconscious competition of the two friends, of whom Andy is very willing to play "second fiddle," did not character and brains force him to the front.

From Daisy's Aunt by Benson, E. F. (Edward Frederic)