in second position

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in second position" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It is typically used to describe the placement of a word or phrase within a sentence, specifically as the second element in the sentence's structure. Example 1: "In second position, the verb must agree with the subject in number and person." Example 2: "The adjective 'happy' is in second position in the sentence 'Sara is very happy.'" Example 3: "In second position, adverbs often modify the verb or adjective."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Main clauses have the finite verb in second position.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Vettel then made another pit stop after Lap 31, and returned in second position.

The New York Times - Sports

But he scythed his way up the pack and was in second position by Lap 21.

The New York Times - Sports

Vettel had started in second position, behind the pole sitter, Nico Rosberg, in a Mercedes.

The New York Times - Sports

You open one diamond in second position, your left-hand opponent jumps to five clubs, partner doubles, and righty passes.

The New York Times

Here, Sokolow's shapes are resolute; deep pliés in second position are rooted by straight arms held above the body.

The New York Times - Arts

The other surprise of the day was Lewis Hamilton, who placed his McLaren Mercedes in second position on the grid.

The New York Times

"Bayern Munich is like us, in second position.

The Guardian - Sport

At both tables East opened one spade in second position.

The New York Times

In second position en l'air ("in the air"), the weight is supported by one foot while the other is raised at the side.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In a recent report, the international Turtle Conservation Coalition placed the Rafetus swinhoei in second position on a list of the 25 most threatened turtles.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing placements in a competition or ranking, use "in second position" to clearly indicate the runner-up or the entity that is immediately below the leader.

Common error

Avoid using "in second position" when you actually mean a secondary or less important role. "In second position" refers specifically to order or ranking, not hierarchical importance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in second position" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb or clause to indicate placement or ranking. It specifies the sequential order, indicating what follows the first position. This is evident in examples found by Ludwig, where it describes finishing places in races, team rankings, and other ordered contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Wiki

20%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Science

3%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in second position" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe placement or ranking immediately following the first. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's used across a wide range of contexts, particularly in News & Media and Wiki, with a neutral register. When writing, ensure that you're using it to denote order or ranking, not general importance, and that it fits the appropriate level of formality for your audience. Alternatives like "runner-up" or "ranked second" can be used for variety, depending on the specific meaning you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ranked second

A concise way to indicate a position in a ranking.

placed second

Similar to 'ranked second' but emphasizes the act of being positioned.

coming in second place

Directly states the outcome of a competition or race.

in the runner-up spot

Emphasizes the competitive aspect of being in second place, especially in races or contests.

holding the second rank

Highlights the hierarchical order or ranking system.

occupying the second slot

Focuses on the placement within a sequence or list.

second in line

Highlights the order in a queue or sequence.

next in order

Emphasizes the sequence or progression from one position to the next.

immediately following

Focuses on the sequential order, indicating what comes directly after the first position.

trailing closely behind

Indicates proximity to the leader, suggesting a near-second position.

FAQs

How is "in second position" used in a sentence?

"In second position" indicates that something or someone is ranked or placed immediately after the first. For instance, "The team finished "in second position" after a close final match".

What are some alternatives to "in second position"?

You can use alternatives such as "runner-up", "second place", or "ranked second" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "on second position" instead of "in second position"?

No, the correct preposition to use is "in". "On second position" is not grammatically correct. Always use ""in second position"".

What does it mean to be "in second position" in ballet?

In ballet, ""in second position"" refers to a specific stance where the feet are turned out and placed apart on the same line.