second coming: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowFormal, religious, literary
Quick answer
What does “second coming” mean?
The prophesied return of Jesus Christ to Earth, as described in Christian theology.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The prophesied return of Jesus Christ to Earth, as described in Christian theology.
Metaphorically, the return or resurgence of a significant person, movement, or phenomenon with major impact.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant lexical or grammatical differences; both varieties use the phrase identically.
Connotations
In both, primarily religious with strong eschatological associations; metaphorical use is understood but less common.
Frequency
Equally infrequent in both British and American English, appearing mainly in religious, academic, or literary contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “second coming” in a Sentence
the second coming of [noun phrase]during the second comingafter the second comingVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “second coming” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The prophet said he would come a second time to fulfill the prophecy.
American English
- They expect the leader to come back with renewed vigor.
adverb
British English
- Secondly, the doctrine of the second coming is examined in detail.
American English
- He finished second in the race, not first.
adjective
British English
- The second coming event is central to their faith.
American English
- His second coming to the industry was met with enthusiasm.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rarely used; if so, metaphorically for a major product launch or leader's return, e.g., 'The new CEO is seen as the second coming of innovation.'
Academic
Common in religious studies, theology, and literature; used to describe revivals or significant returns in various fields.
Everyday
Almost never used in casual conversation; may appear in religious discussions or hyperbolic metaphors.
Technical
In theology, a precise eschatological event; in other disciplines, used metaphorically with specific definitions.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “second coming”
- Incorrect capitalization: use 'Second Coming' when referring specifically to Christ.
- Using it too casually in secular contexts, which can seem irreverent.
- Misinterpreting as 'coming second in a competition'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is typically capitalized when referring specifically to the return of Jesus Christ in religious contexts, but in metaphorical or secular use, it may not be.
Yes, it can be used metaphorically to describe the return or revival of any important person, idea, or phenomenon, though this usage is less common.
Parousia' is a technical term often used in theology to refer to the Second Coming of Christ.
Use it primarily in formal or religious settings, ensure proper capitalization when applicable, and avoid trivializing the term in casual metaphors.
The prophesied return of Jesus Christ to Earth, as described in Christian theology.
Second coming is usually formal, religious, literary in register.
Second coming: in British English it is pronounced /ˈsɛkənd ˈkʌmɪŋ/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈsɛkənd ˈkʌmɪŋ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “waiting for the second coming”
- “like a second coming”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'second' as in two and 'coming' as arrival, so it's the second arrival of Jesus, often associated with major events.
Conceptual Metaphor
A SIGNIFICANT RETURN IS A MESSIANIC EVENT
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary metaphorical use of 'second coming'?