second best
复数形式
second bests
1
2
次优选择
an alternative that is not as fulfilling or desirable as other options that one has
The idiom "second best" originated from the notion of ranking options or choices in terms of preference or desirability. The term "second best" refers to an alternative that falls short in comparison to other options, lacking the qualities or fulfillment provided by a superior choice. It implies that while the alternative may still have some merit or value, it is not the ideal or optimal selection. In other words, this idiom is commonly used to express the idea of settling for a less desirable option when the preferred choice is unavailable or unattainable.
- I wanted to buy the latest smartphone, but due to budget constraints, I settled for a second-best model.
我想买最新的智能手机，但由于预算限制，我选择了一个次优的型号。
- Sarah was disappointed when she didn't get the lead role in the play; instead, she was given the second-best part.
莎拉对没有在剧中获得主角感到失望；相反，她得到了第二好的角色。
- John aimed to win the competition, but he ended up in second place, settling for second best.
约翰的目标是赢得比赛，但他最终获得了第二名，只能满足于次优。
- The company initially pursued its top candidate for the job, but when he declined the offer, they had to settle for their second-best choice.
公司最初追求的是这份工作的最佳人选，但当他拒绝了这个提议时，他们不得不退而求其次，选择了他们的第二最佳人选。