play second fiddle
Take lesser role
Play second fiddle is to take a subordinate role, especially when you'd prefer to lead.
The phrase comes from orchestral seating—the second violinist supports the first rather than carrying the melody.
She was tired of playing second fiddle to her more charismatic brother.
Often implies resentment or dissatisfaction with one's lesser status.
- obeyFollow commands given
- underlingPerson of lower rank
- deputyAuthorized substitute or assistant
- right hand manIndispensable chief assistant
- number twoDeputy or runner-up
subservient · take a back seat · cog · understudy · behind the scenes · power behind · supporting · deference · assist · complement · humility · inferiority · outshone · tag along · subordinate · shadowing · hierarchy · follower
- music expressionsmusic to my ears, in tune, out of tune, strike a chord, call the tune
play second fiddletake the lead
Assume foremost position
run the show · call the shots · dominate · lead · rule
play second fiddlestar
Luminous astronomical object
take center stage · headline · steal the show · take the lead · stand out
play, plays, played, playing, player, players, playful, playfully, playfulness