play second fiddle

Cultural  

1. To play a supporting or minor role in relation to someone else: “Tired of playing second fiddle, she resigned and started her own company.” In an orchestra, the position of second violinist (fiddle) is not as glamorous as that of first violinist.

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play second fiddle Idioms  

1. Assume a subsidiary role to someone, as in Mary resented always playing second fiddle to her older sister. This term alludes to the part of second violin in an orchestra. Although many would argue it is as important as first violin, it is the idea of subordinacy that was transferred in the figurative term, so used since about 1800.

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Example Sentences

When Tesla reports quarterly earnings on Wednesday, the numbers could once again play second fiddle to narrative details about the company’s futuristic forays into robotaxis and humanoid robots.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 21, 2026

Words play second fiddle to the many stunning photographs of a seemingly ageless Ms. Parton in “Star of the Show.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 2, 2026

For that matter, the ACC doesn’t seem inclined to play second fiddle to other Power Five conferences despite nearly being left behind in a summer of realignment and internal discontent.

From Washington Times • Sep. 20, 2023

While the talented ensemble keeps everything relatably grounded, they ultimately play second fiddle to those wonderfully gonzo Vuvv.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 18, 2023

He was leader at Laverport, and it breaks his heart to play second fiddle to anybody here.

From Dave Porter and His Rivals or, The Chums and Foes of Oak Hall by Goss, John

Related Words

• accept
• adhere to
• carry out
• comply
• embrace
• execute
• heed
• live by
• observe
• surrender