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.

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

Several different strikers have played second fiddle to Harry Kane in recent years, but none are currently enjoying the kind of purple patch Welbeck is.

From BBC • Nov. 1, 2025

"I play second fiddle to you there again," says Bill.

From Fairy and Folk Tales of the Irish Peasantry by Yeats, W. B. (William Butler)