a clear favorite

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a clear favorite" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone or something that is distinctly preferred or likely to win in a competition or selection process. Example: "In the upcoming election, the incumbent candidate is considered a clear favorite among voters."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

Food

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Each semifinal has a clear favorite.

The New York Times - Sports

He was considered a clear favorite.

The New York Times - Food

Again Tuesday, a clear favorite failed to emerge.

The New York Times - Sports

So I would call Mr. Gingrich the favorite for now — but not a clear favorite.

The New York Times

Wichita State topped Pittsburgh in an 8-9 game without a clear favorite.

The New York Times - Sports

Mr. Huntsman was also a clear favorite among voters who oppose the Tea Party movement.

The New York Times

He had been to several festivals through the years and had found a clear favorite.

The New Yorker

The best-play nominees indicate a clear favorite for the Tony.

The New York Times

Homemade ice creams are the restaurant's signature; mango sorbet was a clear favorite.

The New York Times

There does not seem to be a clear favorite, and a compromise is possible.

The New York Times - Sports

Meanwhile, I'd consider him to be a clear favorite against someone like Ms. Palin or Ms. Bachmann.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a clear favorite" when you want to convey that one option is significantly more likely to succeed or is preferred over others. It adds a sense of certainty and direction to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "a clear favorite" when the preference or likelihood of success is not actually evident. Overusing it can weaken your argument if there's no real basis for the claim.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a clear favorite" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject complement or object. Ludwig AI indicates that it's grammatically correct and widely used. It identifies a person, thing, or option that is distinctly preferred or considered most likely to succeed, based on available evidence.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Sports

21%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Food

6%

Science

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the analysis confirms that the phrase "a clear favorite" is a commonly used and grammatically sound English expression. Ludwig AI also supports that the phrase is accurate and widely used. It functions as a noun phrase to denote a person, object, or option that is preferred or likely to win. Usage spans across diverse contexts like news, sports, and business, denoting its versatility. To enhance your writing, reserve it for scenarios where preference or likelihood is genuinely apparent, steering clear of ambiguity. Alternatives such as "the frontrunner" or "the obvious choice" can provide nuanced options. Finally, steer clear from misusing "a clear favorite" in ambiguous situations where you are unsure.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the preferred choice

Emphasizes the act of choosing and liking something over others.

the obvious choice

Suggests that the selection is self-evident or easily apparent.

a distinct preference

Focuses on the preference aspect, emphasizing the discernible choice.

the top pick

Highlights the selection of someone or something as the best.

the frontrunner

Specifically highlights the leading position in a competition or race.

the leading contender

Emphasizes competition and the state of being in the lead.

a likely winner

Directly points to the high probability of winning.

the best bet

Implies that the selection is the safest and most promising option.

a shoo-in

Informal term suggesting an almost certain victory.

a sure bet

Implies confidence in a positive outcome.

FAQs

How can I use "a clear favorite" in a sentence?

You can use "a clear favorite" to indicate a leading candidate or choice. For example, "In the polls, she is "a clear favorite" to win the election".

What are some alternatives to "a clear favorite"?

Alternatives include "the frontrunner", "the leading contender", or "the obvious choice". The best alternative depends on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "a clear favorite"?

Use "a clear favorite" when there is strong evidence or widespread agreement that one option is more likely to succeed or is preferred. For example, "This restaurant is "a clear favorite" among locals".

What's the difference between "a clear favorite" and "a likely winner"?

"A clear favorite" suggests a strong preference or leading position, while "a likely winner" simply indicates a high probability of winning. The former implies more than just statistical likelihood.