a candidate for a

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a candidate for a" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to someone or something being considered for a specific role, position, or opportunity. Example: "She is a candidate for a scholarship due to her outstanding academic performance."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The reservoir is a candidate for a thermal recovery method.

Journal of Petroleum Science and Engineering

NetCo is also a candidate for a stockmarket listing.

The Economist

He is also a candidate for a neuroscience Ph.D.

The New York Times

He is a candidate for a law degree at Harvard.

The New York Times - Style

We are seeking a candidate for a post-doctoral research fellowship position.

Harvard University

He is also a candidate for a master's in public health at Rutgers New Brunswick.

The New York Times

"Would I be a candidate for a surgery after this surgery?" he asked.

The New Yorker

He is also a candidate for a master's degree in electrical engineering from Cooper Union.

The New York Times - Style

The son is now a candidate for a doctorate in anthropology from Southern Methodist University.

The New York Times

She was considered a candidate for a top post in any Clinton administration.

The New York Times

The United States certainly seems to be a candidate for a country that can borrow indefinitely.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a candidate for a", ensure that the noun following "for" clearly specifies the role, position, or opportunity being considered. This helps maintain clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using overly verbose language around "a candidate for a". For example, instead of saying "He is a potential candidate for a position", simply state "He is "a candidate for a" position".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a candidate for a" functions primarily as a noun phrase, identifying someone or something as being considered for a specific role, position, or treatment. Ludwig's examples show its prevalent use in various contexts, from academic degrees to medical procedures.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Academia

30%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a candidate for a" is a versatile expression used to denote someone or something being considered for a specific role or position. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically sound and frequently used in diverse contexts such as news, academia, and science. While alternatives like "an applicant for a" or "a nominee for a" exist, ""a candidate for a"" remains a clear and widely accepted choice. Ensure the phrase is used with a clear indication of what the subject is being considered for to maintain clarity and avoid redundancy in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an applicant for a

Focuses on the act of applying, suggesting a more active role by the individual.

a nominee for a

Implies a formal selection process where the person has been put forward by others.

a contender for a

Highlights the competitive aspect, implying there are multiple individuals vying for the same thing.

someone suitable for a

Emphasizes the fitness or appropriateness of a person for a given role.

an option for a

Presents the individual as one possibility among several to be considered.

a prospect for a

Suggests potential and future suitability, rather than current readiness.

a possibility for a

Indicates a chance or likelihood, but without strong certainty.

a likely person for a

Highlights the probability of someone being selected or successful in a particular role.

an ideal selection for a

Emphasizes perfection and optimal choice, often implying the individual possesses all necessary qualities.

an appropriate choice for a

Stresses the suitability and relevance of the individual for a specific purpose or position.

FAQs

How can I use "a candidate for a" in a sentence?

You can use "a candidate for a" to indicate someone or something being considered for a role, position, or treatment. For instance, "She is "a candidate for a" scholarship" or "This technology is "a candidate for a" major upgrade".

What are some alternatives to "a candidate for a"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "an applicant for a", "a nominee for a", or "a contender for a".

Is it correct to say "potential candidate for a"?

While understandable, "potential candidate for a" can be redundant. Using just ""a candidate for a"" already implies potential. Consider using a more concise phrasing, such as ""a candidate for a"". If you want to emphasize potential, rephrase the sentence.

What's the difference between "a candidate for a" and "an applicant for a"?

"A candidate for a" suggests consideration, while "an applicant for a" implies someone has actively applied. One may be a candidate without applying (e.g., nominated), but an applicant has taken the initiative to apply.