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Meaning of second-rate
The primary meaning of the word "second-rate" refers to something that is of inferior quality or standard.
Etymology of second-rate
The term "second-rate" originated in the mid-17th century, derived from the idea of something being of a lower rank or classification, with "second" implying a position below the first or best.
Historically, the phrase was used to describe ships or sailors that were of a lower quality or standard, and over time, its usage expanded to include other contexts, such as products, services, or performances.
Synonyms
inferior
mediocre
subpar
poor
inadequate
unsatisfactory
unimpressive
lacking
deficient
substandard
low-grade
low-quality
disappointing
unremarkable
uninspiring
unexceptional
ordinary
commonplace
mundane
dull
uninspired
unoriginal
trite
hackneyed
clichéd
banal
vapid
flat
stale
tired
weary
worn-out
outmoded
outdated
obsolete
antiquated
archaic
inept
incompetent
ineffectual
ineffective
futile
useless
worthless
mediocre
middling
fair
passable
tolerable
acceptable
satisfactory
decent
reasonable
moderate
so-so
average
middling
fair-to-middling
unexceptional
run-of-the-mill
garden-variety
common
ordinary
everyday
usual
customary
habitual
routine
unvarying
monotonous
humdrum
dull
tedious
irksome
bothersome
annoying
vexing
irritating
exasperating
infuriating
maddening
tiresome
wearisome
fatiguing
exhausting
enervating
debilitating
weakening
enfeebling
sapping
draining
depleting.
Definitions
- According to Oxford Languages, "second-rate" is defined as: of a lower standard or quality than the best, or not as good as something or someone else.
- The phrase is often used to describe something that is inferior, mediocre, or subpar.
Usage Examples
- The restaurant served second-rate food, which was disappointing given its high prices.
- The movie was a second-rate remake of a classic film, lacking the original's charm and wit.
- The company's second-rate customer service led to a significant loss of customers.
Antonyms
superior
excellent
exceptional
outstanding
superb
magnificent
brilliant
impressive
remarkable
extraordinary
unprecedented
unparalleled
unmatched
unequaled
unsurpassed
top-notch
first-rate
high-quality
premium
luxurious
opulent
lavish
sumptuous
extravagant
grand
magnificent
resplendent
glorious
sublime
supreme
preeminent
dominant
reigning
paramount
foremost
leading
top
best
finest
greatest
optimal
perfect
flawless
impeccable
faultless
error-free
impeccable
irreproachable
unimpeachable
beyond-reproach
exemplary
model
ideal
quintessential
paradigmatic
archetypal
classic
timeless
enduring
lasting
abiding
perpetual
constant
steady
steadfast
unwavering
unshakeable
unshakeable.