Describing the position immediately preceding the final one in a sequence, order, or list. It signifies the penultimate item, coming just before the very end. This term is commonly used when discussing ranks, standings, or ordered series, offering a precise way to identify an element's location relative to the conclusion. The 'second-to-last' element inherently implies that at least two items exist within the context, as a single item has no predecessor and two would make it the last and first of the group. This phrase aids in clarity when specifying items towards the end of a range or arrangement, particularly in a situation where specific order matters.
Second-to-last meaning with examples
- In the marathon, after running for hours, the runner's goal of placing in the top three was out of reach, and their second-to-last position was not ideal, however their focus had always been to finish and do their best. Their family and friends were waiting at the finish line, excited to congratulate their accomplishment, as they knew the long, hard work they had put in.
- During the spelling bee, after each competitor misspelled their word, a second-to-last competitor got up and began to spell their word, while nervous anticipation filled the air. This positioned the remaining participants to brace themselves, for the moment they would either claim victory or have their hopes dashed to complete their challenge.
- When I organized my books, I put all the biographies in chronological order; the one about Lincoln was second-to-last, as I wanted it to be closer to the fiction, the most recent ones are at the end. The ones before were carefully selected. It was a way of ordering my experience and thoughts.
- The movie's credits rolled, and the second-to-last actor's name appeared on screen before the final one which featured the director and their production company. Many stayed to view all credits, in order to find out about the other actors and what music was featured in the movie.