second order

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "second order" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It is typically used to describe something that is of secondary importance or significance in a sentence. Example: "While it is important to address the main issue at hand, we must also consider the second order effects of our actions."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Academia

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

So I canceled the second order.

The New York Times - Tech

General second order IIR (18-bit).

Cornell University

They don't get the second order goal.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Matlab: To generate second order coefficient.

Cornell University

The proposed method involves second order information.

IFAC Proceedings Volumes

The removal followed second order kinetics.

Journal of Environmental Chemical Engineering

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

Pseudo-second order coefficient.

International Journal of Industrial Chemistry

b Pseudo-second order.

Journal of Analytical Science and Technology

pseudo-second order rate constant.

Chemistry Central Journal

Metal removal favored pseudo-second order model.

Applied Water Science

This gives rise to second-order logic.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "second order", ensure the context clearly establishes what the "first order" or primary element is, providing a clear point of reference.

Common error

Avoid using "second order" without first establishing or clearly implying what the first-order concern is, as this can lead to confusion about the relative importance of the elements being discussed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "second order" functions primarily as an adjective phrase modifying a noun. It indicates that the noun it modifies is of secondary importance, influence, or a derivative effect. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase correctly denotes something of lesser significance.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

50%

Academia

30%

News & Media

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "second order" is a grammatically sound adjective phrase, primarily used to denote something of secondary importance or a derivative effect. As Ludwig AI points out, it's commonly used and correct, but the context needs to clearly define the relationship between the first and second-order elements. Found frequently in scientific and academic texts, and also present within news and media, its presence indicates a more formal register. When employing "second order", clarity is key: ensure the primary element is well-established to avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

secondary importance

Emphasizes the lesser significance of something.

less significant

Highlights the reduced impact or effect.

lower priority

Focuses on the ranking of importance.

inessential detail

Points to something not crucial or necessary.

derivative effect

Focuses on an effect that stems from something else.

subordinate rank

Indicates a lower position in a hierarchy.

peripheral aspect

Highlights something on the edge or not central.

ancillary role

Focuses on a supporting or auxiliary function.

tertiary concern

Indicates something of third-level importance.

minor league

Informal way of saying something is of a lower importance or rank.

FAQs

How is "second order" used in mathematical contexts?

In mathematics, "second order" often refers to derivatives or differential equations. For example, a second-order derivative measures the rate of change of a rate of change.

What does "second order" mean in general usage?

In general usage, "second order" describes something of secondary importance or significance. It is used to denote something that is not the primary concern but still relevant.

What's the difference between "first order" and "second order"?

"First order" refers to the primary or most important thing, while "second order" refers to something that is consequential but less important. Think of it as cause and effect: a first-order effect is the direct result, and a second-order effect is a subsequent consequence.

Can I use alternatives like "secondary importance" instead of "second order"?

Yes, depending on the context. Alternatives like "secondary importance" or "lower priority" can often be used interchangeably with "second order" when referring to something of lesser importance. However, in technical contexts (like mathematics), "second order" has a specific meaning and should not be replaced.