a close number two

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a close number two" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is a strong second choice or contender, often in a ranking or comparison context. Example: "In the race for best-selling novel, her book was a close number two to the top seller."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

With the joint venture in place, Nokia will now become a close number two competitor to Ericsson, which has a thriving wireless networking business.

Forbes

The nightingale might be most famous for its bewitching song, but the bird's droppings are coming in at a close number two as spas across the world are opting to use the strange ingredient in skin treatments.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

A visit to the camp barber was the first necessity for the recruits, where a close "number one" cut was the only style on offer.

BBC

He skates in the opening and closing numbers, two individual performances, and two group numbers.

Los Angeles Times

Antarctica was number one and Brahma was a close-behind number two.

Forbes

Facebook Twitter Google plus Share Share this post Facebook Twitter Google plus close 11.14am ET16 14 Number two: "We should finish the job of fixing our broken immigration system".

The Guardian

Later, her younger sister let forth an epic Number Two during a close commute on a crosstown bus.

Huffington Post

Facebook Twitter Google plus Share Share this post Facebook Twitter Google plus close 11.15am ET16 15 Number three: We should pass a farm bill.

The Guardian

But this brings the digital engagement programme perilously close to obstacle number two – a general election.

The Guardian - Tech

Hearts were rampant and Sow and Keatings came close before number three came seven minutes before half-time.

BBC

So close to goal number two.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "a close number two", ensure the context clearly establishes a ranking or comparison to avoid ambiguity. For example, "In terms of market share, the company was a close number two to its main competitor."

Common error

Avoid using "a close number two" if the actual gap between the first and second position is substantial. The phrase implies a narrow margin or tight competition.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a close number two" functions as a descriptive phrase, typically acting as an adjective modifying a noun or pronoun. It characterizes something as being in a strong second position, nearly achieving the top rank. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is correct and usable in English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Science

34%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a close number two" is used to describe something that nearly achieves the top position. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. It often appears in News & Media and Science contexts, indicating its versatility in describing competition or ranking. While not overly common, the phrase effectively conveys the idea of a strong second-place contender. When using the phrase, be mindful of the actual gap between the first and second positions to ensure accuracy. Alternatives such as "a strong second" or "a runner up" can be considered depending on the intended nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a strong second

Emphasizes the strength of the second position without explicitly using "number two".

a near second

Highlights the closeness of the second position to the first.

a runner-up

Indicates someone who came in second place in a competition.

second-place finisher

Specifically denotes the person or entity that finished in second place.

a narrow second place

This alternative specifies second place as a near or tight result.

second in line

Implies a sequential order, highlighting the second position.

close behind the leader

Emphasizes the proximity to the leading position.

next in succession

Suggests a position of following the leader.

almost the top contender

Highlights that the person/entity came close to being the leader.

the second best

Highlights the quality of being almost the best.

FAQs

What does the expression "a close number two" mean?

The expression "a close number two" indicates that something or someone is in a strong second position, very near to being the leader or best. It implies a tight competition or a narrow margin between first and second place.

How can I use "a close number two" in a sentence?

You can use "a close number two" to describe rankings, competition results, or any scenario where there's a clear second position. For example, "Their product was "a close number two" in sales this quarter."

Which is correct, "a close number two" or "a closely number two"?

"A close number two" is the correct and idiomatic expression. "Closely number two" is grammatically incorrect and doesn't convey the intended meaning.

What are some alternatives to saying "a close number two"?

You can use alternatives like "a strong second", "a runner-up", or "almost the best", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.