be second only to (someone or something)

be second only to (someone or something)

To be regarded as less valuable or important than only one other person or thing (stated after "to"). She's a great candidate for the job—her experience is second only to her knowledge of the industry.

See also: second

be second only to somebody/something

be in a position where only one person or thing is better, more important, etc: As a pianist, he was second only to Rubinstein.

See also: second, somebody, something