IdiomDaily Life
English
Englishplay second fiddle
Meaning: To be in a subordinate position; to have a lower rank or standing than someone else.
Example: “He got tired of playing second fiddle to his famous brother.”
Origin: In an orchestra or string quartet, the second violin supports the first, which plays the leading melody. The figurative phrase for a supporting role is recorded from the 18th century.
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- put all one's eggs in one basket To invest all one's hopes or plans in only one possible outcome.
- put someone on the spot To put someone in a difficult situation or to present someone with a difficult choice; to…
- put the squeeze on To apply pressure on someone to do something; to force or coerce someone.
Explore another collection: Proverbs
Short sayings of timeless wisdom from more than 50 cultures, each with its meaning and origin.
- 長い物には巻かれろ (Nagai mono ni wa makarero) Don't resist those more powerful than you; go along with them.
- 備えあれば憂いなし (Sonae areba urei nashi) If you are prepared, you have nothing to worry about.
- 弘法筆を選ばず (Kōbō fude wo erabazu) A true master does good work whatever the tools.
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