If you're looking for synonyms for the term "next to best," you may consider several options that can be used in different contexts. Some suitable alternatives include "runner-up," "second-best," "almost the best," "near-perfect," or "close contender." All these words are creative ways of expressing the idea that something or someone came very close to being the best but just didn't make it to the top. You can use any of these synonyms to emphasize a situation, product, or person that falls short but is still impressive. Overall, "next to best" has many ways of being expressed, so pick the one that suits your needs the most.