be a poor second
be a poor second
To finish a race or competition well behind the winner. Primarily heard in UK. I didn't expect to be a poor second in the race—who knew Kate was so fast?
See also: poor, second
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
be/come a poor second, third, etc.
(especially British English) finish a long way behind the winner in a race, competition, etc: The Socialists won the election easily with 40% of the vote, with the Democrats coming a poor second with only 26%.See also: come, poor
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary
- come a poor second
- be/come a poor second, third, etc.
- be a poor third
- come a poor third
- ready for the off
- dead heat
- dead heat, in a
- pit in
- boat race
- pull ahead (of someone or something)