Runner-up meaning

The runner-up is the competitor who finishes in second place in a competition or contest.


Runner-up definitions

Word backwards pu-rennur
Part of speech Noun
Syllabic division run-ner-up
Plural The plural of the word runner-up is runners-up.
Total letters 8
Vogais (2) u,e
Consonants (3) r,n,p

When it comes to competitions, coming in second place can be both an accomplishment and a disappointment. The runner-up is the contestant or team that finishes in second place, just behind the winner. While they may not have secured the top spot, being a runner-up still shows skill, determination, and hard work.

Runner-up titles are often seen in sports tournaments, reality TV shows, beauty pageants, and other competitive events. The individual or group that finishes in second place is typically awarded a prize or recognition for their efforts. While the glory of winning may have eluded them, being a runner-up is still an impressive feat.

Impact and Recognition

Being a runner-up can sometimes be more memorable than winning, especially in cases where the competition was fierce or the stakes were high. Runner-up competitors are often praised for their sportsmanship, resilience, and talent, even if they didn't clinch the top spot.

Lessons Learned

For many runner-up contestants, the experience of coming in second can be a valuable lesson in perseverance and humility. It can inspire them to work harder, train better, and strive for success in future endeavors. The title of runner-up can serve as motivation to keep pushing forward and aim for that coveted first-place finish.

History of Notable Runner-ups

Throughout history, there have been many famous runner-up stories that have captured the hearts of audiences around the world. From underdog athletes who narrowly missed the gold medal to talented singers who fell just short of winning a competition, these runner-up tales often serve as inspiration for those facing their own challenges.

In conclusion, while being a runner-up may not always come with the same level of recognition as being the winner, it is still an achievement worth celebrating. The title of runner-up signifies talent, hard work, and dedication, and for many, it is just the beginning of greater success to come.


Runner-up Examples

  1. In the swimming competition, she finished as the runner-up, just missing out on first place.
  2. Despite being the runner-up, he still felt proud of his performance in the chess tournament.
  3. The runner-up of the bake-off received a silver medal for her delicious chocolate cake.
  4. As the runner-up in the race, he was still thrilled to qualify for the upcoming championship.
  5. The gymnast was awarded the title of runner-up in the regional competition.
  6. He narrowly missed becoming the champion and ended up as the runner-up in the talent show.
  7. The runner-up showed great sportsmanship by congratulating the winner with a smile.
  8. She was honored to be named the runner-up for the prestigious science award.
  9. The team was thrilled to be the runner-up in the league and qualify for the playoffs.
  10. Despite being the runner-up, he was determined to come back stronger in the next competition.


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  • Updated 11/05/2024 - 21:28:58