front-runner

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "front-runner" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a candidate or competitor who is leading in a race or competition, often in politics or sports. Example: "In the upcoming election, she is considered the front-runner among the candidates."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 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

She is the expected Democratic front-runner.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 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

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about elections or competitions, use "front-runner" to clearly indicate the individual or entity currently seen as the most likely to succeed. Ensure the context supports this assessment with evidence such as poll numbers or performance metrics.

Common error

Avoid labeling someone or something as a "front-runner" based on initial impressions or limited data. Ensure there's sufficient evidence, such as consistent performance or leading poll numbers, to support the claim. Prematurely declaring a "front-runner" can undermine credibility if the situation changes quickly.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "front-runner" functions primarily as a noun, typically referring to a person or entity leading in a competition, election, or other selection process. Ludwig AI examples showcase its usage in political and sports contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Sports

10%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Science

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "front-runner" is a noun phrase widely used to denote the leading entity in a competition or election. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and highlights its frequent appearance in News & Media and Sports contexts. While suitable for neutral and professional communication, avoid premature usage based on limited data. Consider alternatives like "leading candidate" or "top contender" for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Leading candidate

Focuses specifically on candidates in elections or selections.

Top contender

Highlights the competitive aspect and suitability for winning.

Favorite

Emphasizes popular choice or expectation of success.

Likeliest winner

Directly states the high probability of winning.

Head of the pack

Uses a metaphorical expression to denote leading position.

In the lead

Simple and direct way of stating the current leading position.

Foremost competitor

Highlights the competitive aspect and leading status.

Top seed

Commonly used in sports tournaments to indicate the highest-ranked participant.

Leading the race

Specifically refers to leading in a literal or figurative race.

At the top

A general way to describe being in the highest position.

FAQs

How to use "front-runner" in a sentence?

You can use "front-runner" to describe someone or something that is leading in a race, competition, or selection process. For example, "She is the expected Democratic "front-runner" in the upcoming election".

What can I say instead of "front-runner"?

You can use alternatives like "leading candidate", "top contender", or "favorite" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "front-runner" or "front runner"?

"Front-runner" with a hyphen is the correct and more commonly used form. "Front runner" without the hyphen is less common but can be seen as an alternative.

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

A ""front-runner"" is the leading or favored candidate, while a "dark horse" is a less known candidate who unexpectedly rises to prominence.