be a candidate for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be a candidate for" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to someone who is being considered for a position, role, or opportunity. Example: "She decided to be a candidate for the scholarship program to further her education."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Could she be a candidate for E.M.D.R. ?

The New York Times

Nor to be a candidate for office.

The New York Times

I myself will not be a candidate for that position".

The Guardian - Sport

"He's going to be a candidate for an entire year.

The New York Times

"I will not be a candidate for the Senate.

The Guardian

Ms. Park, 54, is widely expected to be a candidate for president next year.

The New York Times

Republicans said she could be a candidate for administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency.

The New York Times

Khatami didn't particularly want to be a candidate for President in 1997, either.

The New Yorker

"I don't ever expect to be a candidate for office again," he said in an interview.

The New York Times

Willie may not even be a candidate for the usual holiday redemption.

The New York Times

(So maybe Bret Schundler could be a candidate for lieutenant governor).

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be a candidate for", ensure that the context clearly defines the position, role, or opportunity being referenced. For example, "She decided to be a candidate for the scholarship program to further her education."

Common error

Avoid using "be a candidate for" without specifying what one is a candidate for. Unclear usage can confuse the reader. Always provide context.

Linguistic Context

Be a candidate for functions as a predicate nominative, identifying the subject as someone who is being considered or is suitable for a specific role, position, or outcome. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "be a candidate for" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression signifying eligibility or suitability for a particular role, position, or opportunity. Ludwig AI affirms its correctness and usability. It is versatile, appearing in diverse contexts from news and media to scientific literature, with a neutral register making it appropriate for both formal and informal settings. While the phrase is generally clear, it's best practice to specify what one is a candidate for to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives like ""be considered for"" and "qualify for" offer similar meanings with slight variations in nuance. This comprehensive analysis provides a thorough understanding of the phrase's usage and context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

qualify for

This alternative focuses on meeting specific requirements or standards to be eligible.

be eligible for

This phrase emphasizes meeting the necessary conditions to be considered.

be in the running for

This suggests active competition and a chance of success.

be considered for

This alternative highlights the act of being evaluated or reviewed.

be up for

This is a more informal way of saying someone is being considered for something.

be a prospect for

This emphasizes the potential or likelihood of being selected.

vie for

This implies active competition and striving to achieve something.

compete for

This alternative highlights the competitive aspect of seeking a position.

be nominated for

This suggests being formally proposed or put forward for a role or award.

put oneself forward for

This emphasizes the act of volunteering or offering oneself as a candidate.

FAQs

How can I use "be a candidate for" in a sentence?

You can use "be a candidate for" when someone is being considered for a position, role, or opportunity. For example, "He hopes to be a candidate for the manager position."

What is a formal alternative to "be a candidate for"?

A more formal alternative to "be a candidate for" is "be considered for". This option is suitable in professional or academic contexts.

What is the difference between "apply for" and "be a candidate for"?

"Apply for" usually implies a direct action of submitting an application, while "be a candidate for" suggests being considered, whether through application or nomination.

Is it correct to say "is candidate for"?

No, it is grammatically incorrect. The correct phrase is "be a candidate for". The verb "be" is necessary.