in pole position

USAGE SUMMARY

"in pole position" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe someone or something that is in the best position for success, either literally or figuratively. For example, "The Smiths are in pole position to win the race and take the championship."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He's in pole position.

The Guardian - Sport

Safe, but in pole position.

The Guardian - Sport

But who should be in pole position?

The Guardian - Music

"BAe will be in pole position [for that contract].

The Guardian

My Edinburgh prejudice notwithstanding, Glasgow must be in pole position.

The Guardian - Sport

Arsenal remain in pole position despite Liverpool's chase.

The Guardian - Sport

"Rio is in pole position to supply the metal-hungry world".

The New York Times

Britain is now in pole position to lead a "nuclear disarmament race".

The Guardian - Opinion

Hilco, the investment firm, is in pole position to be named as liquidator.

The Guardian - Business

The acquisition puts Dyson Jr in pole position to succeed his father.

The Guardian - Tech

Nadal converts at his third attempt to put himself in pole position to take the set.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "in pole position", ensure the context clearly indicates a competition or situation where leading provides a distinct advantage. Use it when you want to convey not just being first, but also having the best chance of success.

Common error

Avoid using "in pole position" in situations where merely being first isn't necessarily an advantage. The phrase implies a strategic upper hand, so ensure that advantage is clear.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in pole position" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb, indicating the state of being in the most advantageous position. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is correct and usable. The examples show it describing entities ranging from race car drivers to companies.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Sport

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in pole position" is a commonly used idiom that signifies being in the most advantageous position for success. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable nature in written English. With a neutral to professional register, it's frequently found in News & Media and Sports contexts. The phrase suggests not only leadership but also a strategic upper hand. While alternatives like "in the lead" or "leading the way" exist, "in pole position" specifically implies the best chance of achieving a goal due to one's current standing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in the lead

Focuses on the act of leading, rather than the strategic advantage.

at the head of the pack

Implies competition, but with a sense of chasing or pursuit.

in the driver's seat

Suggests control and influence, often in a decision-making context.

in the forefront

Emphasizes being at the front, but can apply to ideas or movements, not just competitions.

in a commanding lead

Underscores the size or strength of the lead.

in a dominant position

Focuses on the strength of the position, rather than the leading aspect.

leading the way

Highlights guidance and direction more than competitive advantage.

at the top of the game

Highlights excellence and mastery more than leadership.

in an advantageous situation

Generalizes the concept to any kind of favorable circumstance.

ahead of the curve

Implies innovation and foresight, rather than immediate leadership.

FAQs

How can I use "in pole position" in a sentence?

You can use "in pole position" to describe someone or something that is in the best position for success, either literally or figuratively. For example, "After the merger, the company was "in pole position" to dominate the market".

What are some alternatives to "in pole position"?

Some alternatives include "in the lead", "leading the way", or "in the forefront", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "in pole position" in formal writing?

Yes, "in pole position" is appropriate for formal writing, especially in business or news contexts, as shown by its frequent use in reputable news sources.

What does "in pole position" mean?

The phrase "in pole position" means being in the most advantageous position, often in a competition or race, giving someone the best chance of winning. It's also used figuratively to describe a leading position in any field.