Английский словарь американских идиом - second best

{adv.} Second; in second place. * /The team came off second best in the game./ SECOND BEST {n.} Something that is lower than or not quite as good as the best. * /Tom liked the deluxe model bicycle; but he could afford only a second best./ * /Joan chose the best and Mary had to take the second best./ * /There were ten boys in the race. Jack won and Fred was a close second best./ Compare: RUNNER UP.