second-string

Thân thiện

The second-string quarterback warms up on the sideline during the game.

Definition

Adjective: 1. Being a replacement or substitute for a regular member of a team: Describes a player who is not part of the starting lineup or primary group, but is available to play if needed. 2. Of secondary quality or importance; not primary or first-rate: Used more broadly to describe a person or thing that is a backup or less important option.

Usage

The adjective "second-string" is used attributively (before a noun) to describe a substitute player or a secondary option. It often implies a lower level of skill, experience, or importance compared to the "first-string" or primary choice. * The second-string quarterback entered the game after the starter was injured. * She was the second-string reporter on the political beat.

Examples

• The coach decided to give the second-string players some experience in the final quarter.
• For this important project, we cannot rely on second-string talent; we need our best people.
• He spent most of the season as a second-string defender, waiting for his chance to start.

Advanced Usage

• The concept can be extended metaphorically beyond sports to any situation involving primary and backup options.
  • In the corporate hierarchy, he felt like a second-string executive, never included in the key decision-making meetings.

Variants and Related Words

• Second-stringer (noun): A player who is a substitute or backup.
  • The second-stringer performed admirably when called upon.

Synonyms

• Substitute
• Backup
• Reserve
• Secondary
• Alternate

Antonyms

• First-string
• Starting
• Primary
• First-rate
• Key

Học thuật

Adjective

1. being a replacement or substitute for a regular member of a team
   • a second-string pitcher