be/come a poor second, third, etc.

be a poor second

To finish a race or competition well behind the winner. Primarily heard in UK. I didn't expect to be a poor second in the race—who knew Kate was so fast?See also: poor, second

be a poor third

To finish a race or competition well behind the winner and second-place finisher. Primarily heard in UK. I was a poor third in the race because my leg cramped up towards the end of it.See also: poor, third

come a poor second

To finish a race or competition well behind the winner. Primarily heard in UK. I didn't expect to come a poor second in the race—who knew Kate was so fast?See also: come, poor, second

come a poor third

To finish a race or competition well behind the winner and second-place finisher. Primarily heard in UK. I came a poor third in the race because my leg cramped up towards the end of it.See also: come, poor, third

be/come a poor second, third, etc.

(especially British English) finish a long way behind the winner in a race, competition, etc: The Socialists won the election easily with 40% of the vote, with the Democrats coming a poor second with only 26%.See also: come, poor