a preferred candidate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a preferred candidate" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts such as job applications, recruitment processes, or discussions about selection criteria. Example: "After reviewing all the applications, we have identified Sarah as a preferred candidate for the position."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

51 human-written examples

There are three types of ballot papers in Sweden: one with party name and list of that party's candidates (on which the voter can select a preferred candidate - only one preference is allowed), one with party name only, on which voters can write the name of their preferred candidate, and finally a blank ballot on which a voter can write both their preferred party and candidate.

The Guardian

The government will then select a preferred candidate.

The Guardian

Then it would go through tendering before finally choosing a preferred candidate.

The Guardian - Sport

American officials assert that they do not have a preferred candidate for prime minister.

The New York Times

Later the board members meet, talk it over and settle on a preferred candidate.

The New York Times

Javid will then choose a preferred candidate who will appear before the Commons culture, media and sport select committee.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

7 human-written examples

Starting Monday, Senator Charles E. Schumer will make a rare appearance in a television commercial backing his preferred candidate in a New York City Democratic primary.

The New York Times

Bercow's election as Speaker was controversial because he was seen as a Labour's preferred candidate.

The Guardian

To summarize: On Tuesday, there will be a contest to select the preferred candidate of a small group of people who are older, wealthier and whiter than American voters in general, and more politically extreme than the average Iowa Republican.

The New York Times

Yet some in her party hope the frontrunner could again be upset by a challenge from an outsider – and their preferred candidate appears to be the liberal Senator from Massachusetts, Elizabeth Warren.

Independent

The Union-Leader has waded into the Republican race in an attempt to boost its preferred candidate, last week publishing a front page editorial attacking the frontrunner, Donald Trump.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In formal writing, consider using "leading candidate" or "favored applicant" as alternatives to maintain a professional tone.

Common error

Avoid assuming that "a preferred candidate" is universally preferred. Clearly state the context of the preference (e.g., "the board's preferred candidate") to prevent misinterpretations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a preferred candidate" functions as a noun phrase, where "preferred" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "candidate". It identifies a specific candidate favored over others. Ludwig examples confirm its role in election, selection, and appointment contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a preferred candidate" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to denote a candidate who is favored or chosen over others. According to Ludwig, its versatility extends across neutral to professional registers, appearing most commonly in news and media contexts. It's crucial to specify who prefers the candidate to avoid ambiguity. While variations like "a favored candidate" or "a leading candidate" offer similar meanings, they may subtly alter the emphasis. Remember to clarify the source of the preference for clarity and accuracy.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a favored candidate

Uses "favored" instead of "preferred", indicating a liking or support.

a leading candidate

Indicates a candidate who is ahead or has the most support.

a top contender

Suggests a candidate with a strong chance of winning or being selected.

a frontrunner

Implies the candidate is currently in the lead.

a chosen candidate

Indicates a candidate has already been selected or decided upon.

a selected applicant

More formal, used in application processes.

the candidate of choice

Highlights that the candidate is someone's specific preference.

the favored applicant

Similar to "a favored candidate", but in the context of applications.

the leading applicant

Suggests the applicant is in the lead.

a recommended nominee

Suggests the candidate has been officially recommended.

FAQs

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

You can use "a preferred candidate" to indicate someone who is favored or liked more than others. For example, "The committee has identified "a preferred candidate" for the position of CEO".

What are some alternatives to "a preferred candidate"?

Alternatives include "a favored candidate", "a leading candidate", or "a top contender". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "a preferred candidate" in formal writing?

Yes, "a preferred candidate" is generally acceptable in formal writing. However, consider alternatives like "a chosen candidate" or "a selected applicant" for an even more professional tone.

What's the difference between "a preferred candidate" and "a recommended nominee"?

"A preferred candidate" suggests a liking or favor, while "a recommended nominee" implies an official endorsement or suggestion for a role.