Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
to play second fiddle
idiom
/tuː pleɪ ˈsɛk.ənd ˈfɪd.əl/
Definition
To occupy a subordinate position or role to someone else, often in a situation where someone else is the main focus or leader.
Examples
- In the project, I was happy to play second fiddle to my colleague who had more experience.
- During the presentation, she played second fiddle while her partner led the discussion.
- He usually plays second fiddle in meetings, allowing others to take the spotlight.
Meaning
The phrase means to support someone else’s ambitions or to take a backseat while someone else takes the lead or gets the credit.
Synonyms
- to take a back seat
- to subordinate oneself
- to play a supporting role
