second to none

USAGE SUMMARY

'second to none' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to express that something is the best of its kind, as in "Her talent for painting is second to none".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

My qualifications are second to none.

Independent

His design aesthetic was second to none.

The New York Times

My unqualifications are second to none.

The New Yorker

Her campaign organisation is second to none.

The Economist

His presentation skills were second to none.

Independent

It was second to none.

The Guardian - Sport

Pina's vision was second to none.

The Guardian

Their attention was second to none.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

He wants to be second to none.

The New York Times

The dancing has been second to none".

The Guardian - TV & Radio

The bird life is second to none.

The Guardian - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "second to none" to confidently assert the unmatched quality or capability of something. It adds emphasis and credibility to your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "second to none" when comparing items across distinctly different categories. It's most effective when used to describe something as the best within a specific, well-defined field or context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "second to none" functions as an adjective phrase, typically modifying a noun. Ludwig AI confirms it's grammatically correct. It emphasizes that the quality or characteristic being described is unparalleled and of the highest standard.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Formal & Business

12%

Science

6%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "second to none" is a grammatically correct and frequently used adjective phrase that conveys the idea of unsurpassed quality or excellence. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's versatile enough for various contexts, most commonly found in news and media but also suitable for formal and professional communication. When using the phrase, ensure you're describing something truly outstanding within its category. Alternatives like "unrivaled" or "peerless" can provide similar emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unrivaled

This alternative emphasizes the lack of competition or equals.

unmatched

This suggests that nothing can equal or surpass the quality being described.

peerless

Highlights the uniqueness and superiority of something, lacking any peers.

unsurpassed

This alternative indicates that something has not been, and likely cannot be, exceeded.

incomparable

Suggests the impossibility of comparing something to others due to its superior nature.

supreme

Emphasizes the highest level of quality or authority.

preeminent

Highlights the superior importance or distinction of something.

leading

Indicates a position at the front or top, suggesting superiority.

the best

A simple and direct way to express top quality.

top-notch

An informal way of saying that something is of very high quality.

FAQs

How to use "second to none" in a sentence?

You can use "second to none" to describe something that is the best in its category. For example, "Their customer service is "second to none"" means their customer service is outstanding.

What can I say instead of "second to none"?

You can use alternatives like "unrivaled", "unmatched", or "peerless" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it grammatically correct to say "second to none"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. "Second to none" is an idiomatic phrase used to describe something of the highest quality or standard.

What does "second to none" actually mean?

"Second to none" means being the best or unsurpassed. It implies that there is nothing else of equal or higher quality.