a frontrunner for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a frontrunner for" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing someone or something that is leading or is likely to win in a competition or selection process. Example: "She is considered a frontrunner for the position of CEO due to her extensive experience and leadership skills."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In the first episode of this series, Ruby was a frontrunner for an early exit.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Early days yet but Mr Turner is clearly a frontrunner for the Palme d'Or.

The Guardian - Film

At 60 miles long, this is a frontrunner for the best biking road in the world.

The Guardian - Travel

Murakami has been considered a frontrunner for the past 10 years.

The Guardian - Books

Ford CEO Alan Mulally was once seen as a frontrunner for the Microsoft job.

The Guardian - Tech

Just 24 hours ago Lou Ye was being tipped as a frontrunner for this year's Palme d'Or.

The Guardian - Film

Ade's comedy is a frontrunner for the best foreign language feature Oscar; other nominations are highly unlikely.

The Guardian - Film

It is widely seen as a frontrunner for next month's Oscars and also has 11 nominations at the Baftas.

The Guardian - Film

Now, 2010 may only be just over three weeks old, but there is already a frontrunner for The Independent on Sunday bare- faced-cheek-of-the-year award.

Independent

It says Mr Djilas may lose his position next year, in which case he will become a frontrunner for for prime minister.

The Economist

Hazanavicius, meanwhile, is odds-on to take the best director Oscar, with The Artist also confirming itself as a frontrunner for best picture.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a frontrunner for", ensure the context clearly indicates the specific position, award, or nomination being discussed. This adds clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "a frontrunner for" repetitively within a short span of text. Vary your language by using synonyms like "leading candidate", "top contender", or more descriptive phrases to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a frontrunner for" functions as a modifier, specifically characterizing a person, object, or entity as a leading contender or likely victor in a particular contest, selection, or competition. Ludwig confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a frontrunner for" is a grammatically sound and widely used expression to denote a leading contender or likely winner. According to Ludwig, it is correct and suitable for describing someone or something with a high probability of success. Predominantly used in neutral contexts, particularly within news and media, it serves to assess the likelihood of achieving a goal or securing a position. While highly versatile, varying the language using alternatives like "leading candidate" or "top contender" can enhance writing. Given its correctness, broad applicability, and strong presence in reliable sources, "a frontrunner for" remains a valuable addition to any communicator's vocabulary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a leading contender for

Replaces "frontrunner" with "leading contender", emphasizing the competitive aspect.

a strong contender for

Replaces "leading" with "strong" to describe the position.

a top candidate for

Uses "top candidate" instead of "frontrunner", focusing on the individual's qualifications.

seen as the favorite for

Focuses on public perception of who is most likely to succeed.

a favorite to win

Shifts the focus to winning, implying a high probability of success.

highly favored for

Indicates a strong preference or advantage in the selection process.

the most likely choice for

Emphasizes probability and selection, rather than competition.

tipped as the likely

Implies an external prediction or assessment of likely success.

well-positioned for

Highlights a favorable position or advantage.

in a strong position for

Similar to "well-positioned", but emphasizes the strength of the position.

FAQs

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

You can use "a frontrunner for" to indicate someone or something considered likely to succeed or win. For example, "She is "a frontrunner for" the CEO position" or "The movie is "a frontrunner for" Best Picture".

What's a good alternative to "a frontrunner for"?

Alternatives include "a leading candidate for", "a top contender for", or "the favorite for". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired emphasis.

Is it appropriate to use "a frontrunner for" in formal writing?

Yes, "a frontrunner for" is appropriate for formal writing, especially in news reports and analytical pieces. However, in highly formal or academic contexts, alternatives like "leading candidate" might be preferred for a more serious tone.

What does it mean to be "a frontrunner for" something?

Being ""a frontrunner for"" something means that you are considered one of the most likely to achieve that goal or win that award. It implies a leading position among competitors.