a particular candidate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a particular candidate" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a specific individual among a group of candidates, often in contexts like elections, job applications, or selection processes. Example: "The committee decided to interview a particular candidate who had extensive experience in the field."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Certain companies were especially generous to a particular candidate.

The New York Times

Why do American voters support a particular candidate?

The Washington Post

Sometimes managers are trying to elect a particular candidate.

The Washington Post

In Israel's parliamentary system, voters now cast one ballot for a party, not a particular candidate.

The New York Times

These new Republican voters were not "Dole Democrats," crossing party lines for a particular candidate.

The New York Times

-What does each stand to gain, and lose, if a particular candidate wins the election?

The New York Times

But most of those voters are not yet committed to a particular candidate.

The New York Times

The film does not say whether he favors a particular candidate.

The New York Times

Super delegates are unbound to a particular candidate, unlike the rest of the nominating delegates.

The Guardian - Opinion

It should be relevant to our deliberations that a particular candidate is our enemy.

The New York Times - Magazine

The same survey said voters are not influenced by newspapers backing a particular candidate.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the connotations of related terms. "Nominee" suggests a formal process, while "contender" implies competition.

Common error

Avoid using "a particular candidate" repeatedly in close proximity without providing specific details about why that candidate is being emphasized. It can make your writing sound vague or repetitive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a particular candidate" functions as a noun phrase, where "particular" modifies the noun "candidate". It specifies one candidate out of a group. Ludwig confirms this usage is grammatically correct and widely applicable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Academia

10%

Science

38%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a particular candidate" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to denote a specific individual amongst many potential candidates. According to Ludwig, it's versatile and applicable across various registers, from news media and academia to more informal contexts. When employing this phrase, aim for clarity by ensuring the context sufficiently explains the reason for spotlighting the said candidate. Consider alternatives such as "a specific nominee" or "a chosen individual" for subtle differences in emphasis, ensuring your writing remains precise and engaging.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a specific nominee

Emphasizes the distinct and clearly defined nature of the candidate.

a certain contender

Highlights the assured presence and competition of the candidate.

a designated applicant

Focuses on the selection or appointment aspect of the candidate.

a chosen individual

Underscores the act of selection and the person chosen.

one selected person

Stresses the individuality and choice of the candidate.

a favored prospect

Implies a preference or likelihood of selection for the candidate.

a preferred option

Positions the candidate as the better or more suitable choice.

a targeted individual

Highlights that the person has been selected for the vote.

a prime selection

Emphasizes the high quality or suitability of the candidate.

an identified person

Highlights a selection made to a person who was anonymous before.

FAQs

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

You can use "a particular candidate" to refer to a specific individual among a group of candidates, like in the sentence, "The focus group favored "a particular candidate" because of their clear policy proposals."

What are some alternatives to saying "a particular candidate"?

Alternatives include "a specific nominee", "a certain contender", or "a chosen individual", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "a particular candidate" or "a specific candidate"?

Both "a particular candidate" and "a specific candidate" are grammatically correct. The choice depends on personal preference, although "particular" might suggest a more nuanced or contextual reason for singling out the candidate.

In what situations is it most appropriate to use the phrase "a particular candidate"?

The phrase is suitable in contexts where you want to emphasize that you are referring to one candidate out of many, and there is a specific reason or characteristic that distinguishes them. This is especially useful in political discussions, job applications, or selection processes.