leading candidate for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "leading candidate for" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe someone or something that is considered the most likely to succeed or be chosen for a particular position or role. Example: "She is the leading candidate for the position of CEO due to her extensive experience and proven track record."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Judging by all the polls, Clinton is the leading candidate for the Democratic presidential nomination.

The Washington Post

A spectre is haunting the leading candidate for the Democratic Presidential nomination.

The New Yorker

Webber, a leading candidate for most valuable player, will be a free agent after this season.

The New York Times - Sports

The Kings had won three straight games without Webber, a leading candidate for Most Valuable Player.

The New York Times - Sports

It had not been considered a leading candidate for a best-picture Oscar.

The New York Times

So far, the leading candidate for aggrieved party is Boise State.

The New Yorker

The leading candidate for the dark matter until now, called cold dark matter, is simple.

The New York Times - Science

A leading candidate for the Lib Dem leadership has condemned the share sale.

The Guardian

McAdams replaces Zooey Deschanel, who had originally looked like the leading candidate for the role.

The Guardian - Film

Jordan, though, is a leading candidate for the head coaching job in Denver.

The New York Times - Sports

That leaves Lewis as the leading candidate for the Buffalo Bills' vacancy.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming to convey uncertainty, consider using alternatives like "potential candidate for" to avoid implying a guaranteed outcome.

Common error

Avoid using "leading candidate for" when the situation is highly uncertain or the outcome is unpredictable. Alternatives like "possible contender for" may be more appropriate to reflect the ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "leading candidate for" functions as a pre-modifying adjective phrase that describes the likelihood of someone or something being selected for a particular position or role. As Ludwig AI confirms, this is a standard and acceptable usage in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

18%

Academia

9%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "leading candidate for" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe someone or something considered most likely to achieve a specific outcome or secure a particular position. According to Ludwig AI, its use is correct and applicable across various contexts. It appears most frequently in news and media, followed by science and academic publications, indicating a neutral to formal register. When using this phrase, be mindful of the level of certainty you wish to convey, and consider alternatives like "potential candidate for" when the outcome is less predictable. Ensure that the role or position being referred to is clearly defined to maintain clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

front runner for

This alternative emphasizes the competitive aspect of being ahead in a selection process.

top contender for

This alternative highlights the competitive aspect, suggesting a strong position among a group of competitors.

primary choice for

This option emphasizes that this is a preferred option above other possible options.

preferred option for

This alternative suggests a level of desirability or preference, making it a slightly softer option.

likely nominee for

This is most relevant in scenarios where a formal nomination is involved.

probable selection for

This alternative emphasizes the idea of being selected or chosen, focusing on the decision outcome.

chief prospect for

This alternative highlights the potential and future expectations associated with the candidate.

main applicant for

This alternative is more suitable in contexts where individuals apply for a role or position.

principal competitor for

This option focuses on the competition and the person's role within that context.

promising possibility for

This option softens the certainty, suggesting the candidate has good potential but is not guaranteed.

FAQs

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

Use "leading candidate for" to describe someone or something considered the most likely to be chosen. For example, "She is the "leading candidate for" the job because of her experience."

What are some alternatives to "leading candidate for"?

Alternatives include "front runner for", "top contender for", or "primary choice for", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Which is correct: "leading candidate for" or "lead candidate for"?

"Leading candidate for" is the correct and more commonly used phrase. "Lead candidate for" is less idiomatic and may sound awkward to native English speakers.

What's the difference between "leading candidate for" and "potential candidate for"?

"Leading candidate for" suggests a higher likelihood of success or selection, while "potential candidate for" indicates a possibility without implying a strong advantage. Use "potential candidate for" when the outcome is less certain.