in the second division

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in the second division" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a specific category, level, or section within a larger organization, competition, or classification system. Example: "The team performed exceptionally well in the second division, securing a spot in the playoffs."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

49 human-written examples

Well, in the second division, anyway.

The Guardian

"We were happy in the second division," Garitano admits.

The Guardian - Sport

Sixteen years later they are back in the second division.

The Guardian - Sport

If I was still playing in the second division in France, nobody would have watched me".

The Guardian - Sport

Ibisevic caught Rangnick's eye in the second division and was bought in 2007.

The Guardian - Sport

The Saltires sit proudly in second place in the second division of the National League.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

11 human-written examples

The club were comfortable in the Second Division, finishing in tenth position.

Wikipedia

As of 2012, Lillehammer FK's first-team plays in the Second Division.

Wikipedia

In his first season in charge, 1960 61, Stoke finished 18th in the Second Division.

Wikipedia

The club are currently in the process of being sold and are second from bottom in the Second Division.

The Guardian - Sport

Sore point Pure and simple - we're still in the Second Division.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider alternatives like "in the lower league" or "in the second tier" for broader appeal or to avoid jargon specific to certain domains.

Common error

Avoid using "in the second division" when referring to something that doesn't have a clear hierarchical division. For instance, don't use it to describe general categories without established rankings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in the second division" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase, modifying a noun or pronoun to indicate location or status within a hierarchical system. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Wiki

23%

Science

24%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in the second division" is a commonly used prepositional phrase denoting a position or status within a hierarchical system, primarily in sports and organizational contexts. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage across reputable sources like The Guardian and The New York Times. While its register is generally neutral, it can lean towards professional depending on the context. Alternatives such as "in the lower league" and "in the second tier" offer similar meanings. When using the phrase, ensure the hierarchical context is clear to avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in the lower league

Refers to a league below the top tier, similar to the second division.

in the second tier

Uses "tier" instead of "division", implying a ranked level.

in the minor league

Specifically refers to a developmental league, often in sports.

in the second rank

Replaces "division" with "rank", indicating a lower position.

at the second level

Uses "level" instead of "division", suggesting a hierarchical structure.

in the secondary league

Uses "secondary" to denote a league below the primary one.

in the B league

Uses letter designation implying hierarchical structure.

in the second group

Uses "group" instead of "division", referring to a classified set.

among the second class

Replaces "division" with "class", indicating a ranking.

within the second echelon

Uses "echelon" to mean a level in an organization or hierarchy.

FAQs

What does it mean to be "in the second division"?

Being "in the second division" typically refers to participating in the second-highest level or tier of a competition, league, or ranking system, usually in sports or organizational contexts.

What can I say instead of "in the second division"?

You can use alternatives like "in the lower league", "in the second tier", or "in the minor league" depending on the specific context.

How do I use "in the second division" in a sentence?

You can use it to describe a team's position: "After relegation, the team found itself "in the second division"". Or to describe a player: "He started his career playing "in the second division" before moving to a Premier League club".

Is it appropriate to use "in the second division" in formal writing?

Yes, "in the second division" is appropriate, especially when discussing sports, organizational hierarchies, or ranked systems. However, ensure the context is clear and the audience understands the reference.