second gear
The term "second gear" originates from the gear system in vehicles and is often used both literally and metaphorically to describe levels of effort and performance.
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Definition
B2Automotive
(technical)The gear position in a vehicle's transmission system that follows first gear, used for moderate acceleration and speed.
Example
- She shifted into second gear as the car began to climb the hill.
B2General
(metaphorical)A level of effort or performance that is higher than the initial stage but not at full capacity.
Example
- After a slow start, the team finally kicked into second gear and started making progress.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "second gear":
fourth gearlow gearreverse gearfind another gearin gearshift gearsout of geargear shiftgear levergear downbicycle gearrunning gearturn two