1.
second choice; second preference; backup option
One's second-ranked preference, typically when applying for schools, universities, jobs, or other competitive selections. Used in the context of ranking multiple options in order of desirability.
第二志望の大学に合格した。
I was accepted to my second-choice university.
第一志望がだめだったら、第二志望に切り替える。
If my first choice doesn't work out, I'll switch to my second choice.
就職活動では第二志望の会社にも全力で面接に臨むべきだ。
During job hunting, you should approach interviews at your second-choice company with full effort too.
Composed of 第二 (second, number two) and 志望 (aspiration, preference). Part of the 第～志望 ranking pattern used in applications for schools, universities, and jobs. Japanese entrance exams and job applications typically require listing preferences in ranked order.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 第二志望の学校: second-choice school
- 第二志望に受かる: to pass one's second choice
- 第二志望に落ちる: to fail at one's second choice
PATTERN:
The full ranking pattern is:
- 第一志望: first choice
- 第二志望: second choice
- 第三志望: third choice
CULTURAL NOTE:
In Japanese school entrance exams (受験), students typically apply to multiple schools and rank them. Being accepted at one's 第二志望 rather than 第一志望 is common and carries a mild sense of consolation rather than failure.