front runner

USAGE SUMMARY

"front runner" is an appropriate and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to describe a person or group that has taken the lead in an election, race, or other competition. For example: "The front runner in the race for mayor is the incumbent candidate."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

I'm a front runner".

The New Yorker

Leicester: Surely the front runner?

Independent

So far, no front runner has emerged.

The New York Times

Scolari was always the front runner.

BBC

Front runner, closer, stalker, it didn't matter".

Los Angeles Times

Oh Gretchen, buttering up the front runner!

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

Abramson was the front-runner.

The New Yorker

He's the front-runner.

The New York Times

"Get the front-runner".

The New York Times - Sports

UConn had been considered a front-runner.

The New York Times - Sports

Bodemeister is a front-runner as well.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "front runner" when you want to emphasize the leading position in a competition, election, or other contest. It's best suited for situations where the lead is clear and recognized.

Common error

Avoid using "front runner" when the competition is very close and the lead is not clearly established. Using it prematurely can suggest a level of certainty that doesn't exist.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "front runner" functions primarily as a noun, often acting as a subject or object in a sentence. It denotes the person, team, or entity perceived to be leading in a competition or race. Ludwig AI confirms this with numerous examples showcasing its usage in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

5%

Academia

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "front runner" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe the leading entity in a competition or election. Ludwig AI confirms its usability and appropriateness in various contexts. While generally neutral in register, it most frequently appears in News & Media, Wiki and Formal & Business sources. Related phrases include "leading candidate", "top contender", and "early favorite". When using "front runner", ensure the lead is clearly established to avoid misrepresenting the situation. Overall, it's a valuable term for efficiently conveying information about competitive standings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

leading candidate

Focuses on the individual's status as a candidate.

top contender

Highlights the competitive aspect and the individual's high ranking.

chief competitor

Emphasizes the competitive nature.

primary challenger

Highlights the individual's role as a challenger.

leading the pack

Uses a more visual metaphor to describe the leading position.

early favorite

Indicates a perceived advantage from the beginning.

presumptive winner

Suggests a high likelihood of winning.

odds-on favorite

Emphasizes the high probability of success based on betting odds.

pole position holder

Describes the leading position, often in racing contexts.

top seed

Commonly used in tournament contexts.

FAQs

How can I use "front runner" in a sentence?

You can use "front runner" to describe someone or something that is leading in a competition. For example, "She is the "leading candidate" in the mayoral race".

What is a synonym for "front runner"?

Synonyms for "front runner" include "top contender", "leading candidate", or "early favorite". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it always positive to be called a "front runner"?

While generally positive, being a "front runner" can also increase scrutiny and pressure. It means you are the one to beat, and others may target you.

What's the difference between a "front runner" and a "dark horse"?

A "front runner" is the expected winner, while a "dark horse" is an unexpected contender who emerges later in the competition. The "dark horse" is initially not considered a threat.