come a poor third

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. Once I saw her impressive science project, I knew mine would only come a poor third—at best. You came a poor third out there! Did you even train for this meet?

See also: come, poor, third

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

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

Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017