finished runner-up

USAGE SUMMARY

"finished runner-up" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to someone who did not achieve first place or win a competition, but was the second-best contender. For example: "In the marathon, Steven finished runner-up to his brother."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

She eventually finished runner-up in the TV talent show.

Independent

Ironically, it was the German who finished runner-up to Woods in 2008.

Independent

When he was 63, he finished runner-up in the 1992 United States Senior Amateur.

The New York Times - Sports

In 1920, as a 50 year old, Vardon finished runner-up in the US Open.

Independent

John VanderMolen and Geoff Ewenson finished runner-up to remain second in the overall standings.

The New York Times

Between 1969 and 1975 he finished runner-up four times, and tied for sixth once.

The Guardian - Sport

Miller, who also finished runner-up to Cuche in 2008, was satisfied with his performance and praised Cuche.

The New York Times - Sports

I began believing that Chris could win the Tour after the Vuelta where he finished runner-up, in 2011.

The Guardian - Sport

At Royal Ascot in June he had finished runner-up, beaten a neck, in the Diamond Jubilee Stakes.

The Guardian - Sport

In 2005 he finished runner-up in the British Supersport Championship before moving to the World Superbike Championship for 2006.

The Guardian - Sport

Richard Johnson has continually finished runner-up in the title race to McCoy and said: "It's a sad day.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing competitive events, use "finished runner-up" to clearly indicate the second-place finisher. It's more precise than saying someone "lost" or "didn't win".

Common error

Do not use "finished runner-up" when you mean someone simply participated in an event without achieving a notable rank. This phrase specifically denotes the second-place finisher.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "finished runner-up" functions as a descriptive phrase, typically acting as a predicate adjective following a linking verb. It describes the outcome of a competition or event, indicating the second-place finisher. Ludwig AI also validates the phrase as correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "finished runner-up" is a grammatically sound and widely used expression to denote the second-place finisher in a competition. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's correct and suitable for various writing contexts, particularly news and media. The phrase is best used to accurately portray the outcome of competitive events. Some alternatives are "placed second" or "came in second". Remember to avoid using it when simply stating someone participated without achieving a specific ranking.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

was the runner-up

Changes the verb and restructures the phrase while maintaining the original meaning.

placed second

Replaces "finished" with a more direct verb indicating placement, simplifying the phrase.

came in second

Uses a more informal and common expression to denote the second-place result.

secured second place

Highlights the achievement of obtaining the second position, adding a slightly more formal tone.

achieved second position

Emphasizes the accomplishment of reaching the second spot, adding a formal tone.

finished second best

Directly states the subject was the second best performer.

took second honors

Replaces "place" with "honors" for a slightly more elevated expression.

earned the silver medal

Specifically refers to events where medals are awarded, indicating the second-place prize.

missed first place

Focuses on not winning, implying that the subject came close but ultimately finished second.

was the bridesmaid

An idiomatic expression that emphasizes being close to winning but not quite achieving it.

FAQs

How can I use "finished runner-up" in a sentence?

You can use "finished runner-up" to describe someone who came in second place in a competition. For example, "She "finished runner-up" in the national spelling bee".

What does it mean to say someone "finished runner-up"?

When someone "finished runner-up", it means they secured second place in a contest, race, or competition. They did not win but performed well enough to be the second-best participant.

Which is correct, "finished runner-up" or "finished as runner-up"?

"Finished runner-up" is the more common and concise phrasing. While "finished as runner-up" isn't incorrect, it's less frequently used.

What are some alternatives to "finished runner-up"?

You can use alternatives like "placed second", "came in second", or "was the runner-up" depending on the context.