a plausible candidate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a plausible candidate" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing someone or something that is a reasonable or believable option for a particular role or situation. Example: "After reviewing all the applicants, we believe that Sarah is a plausible candidate for the position."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Is Newt Gingrich a plausible candidate for President?

The New Yorker

The Triple Package seems like a plausible candidate for such a force.

The New Yorker

Now, someone from the intellectual milieu associated with the University of Chicago is a plausible candidate.

MIT Technology Review

In nativist-sovereign Britain, the plumber of Bulgarian citizenship is a plausible candidate for expulsion.

The Guardian - Books

It was a long shadow from which to emerge as a plausible candidate for prime minister.

The Guardian

By The New Yorker December 9, 2011 Is Newt Gingrich a plausible candidate for President?

The New Yorker

A plausible candidate for the role might be Dmitry Rogozin, a recently appointed deputy prime minister.

The Economist

But a willingness to learn about export markets, and their languages, is a plausible candidate.

The Economist

Mr Davis is a plausible candidate who has proved to be an effective shadow home secretary.

The Economist

At the least, Dr. Jirtle said, Dr. Plomin has hit on a "plausible candidate" for a gene that affects intelligence.

The New York Times

It has been a persistent theme in the public discourse since Barack Obama became a plausible candidate for the presidency.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When evaluating multiple candidates, use "a plausible candidate" to objectively describe those who meet the basic requirements and warrant further consideration.

Common error

Avoid using "a plausible candidate" when the context is highly subjective or requires a strong endorsement. Instead, use stronger terms like "the ideal candidate" or "the leading candidate" to convey confidence and conviction.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a plausible candidate" functions as a noun phrase, where "plausible" modifies the noun "candidate". According to Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and commonly used. It is typically used to describe someone or something that is a reasonable or believable option for a particular role or situation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Academia

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a plausible candidate" is a frequently used and grammatically sound phrase for describing a reasonable or believable option. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and applicability across various contexts. While versatile, it's crucial to consider the context and use stronger terms when conveying strong endorsement or dealing with highly subjective evaluations. Alternatives such as "a viable candidate" or "a credible nominee" can provide nuanced alternatives. Its neutral register makes it suitable for professional, academic, and general communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a viable candidate

Emphasizes the candidate's ability to succeed or function effectively.

a plausible nominee

Similar to "candidate" but specifically in the context of being officially nominated.

a reasonable candidate

Highlights the candidate's rationality and suitability for consideration.

a credible candidate

Focuses on the candidate's trustworthiness and believability.

a suitable candidate

Highlights the candidate's appropriateness for a specific role or situation.

a realistic candidate

Suggests the candidate's prospects are grounded in reality and achievable.

a probable candidate

Indicates a higher likelihood of the candidate being chosen or successful.

a feasible candidate

Emphasizes the practicality and workability of the candidate's selection.

a fair candidate

Highlights the candidate's just and equitable qualities.

a persuasive candidate

Focuses on the candidate's ability to convince or influence others.

FAQs

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

You can use "a plausible candidate" to describe someone or something that appears to be a reasonable or believable option. For example: "After careful consideration, we identified several "plausible candidates" for the open position".

What is a more formal alternative to "a plausible candidate"?

In formal contexts, you might consider using "a viable contender" or "a credible nominee" to maintain a professional tone. These alternatives emphasize suitability and trustworthiness, respectively.

Which is correct: "plausible candidate" or "credible candidate"?

Both "plausible candidate" and "credible candidate" are correct, but they emphasize different aspects. "Plausible" suggests reasonableness, while "credible" implies trustworthiness and believability. The best choice depends on the specific context.

What are some situations where "a plausible candidate" might not be the best choice?

In situations requiring strong endorsement or where subjectivity is high, "a plausible candidate" may be too weak. Consider stronger alternatives like "the leading candidate" or "the most suitable option" to convey more conviction.