likely candidate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "likely candidate" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to someone or something that has a high probability of being selected or chosen for a particular role or task. Example: "After reviewing all the applicants, Sarah emerged as the likely candidate for the position due to her extensive experience and qualifications."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The more likely candidate is Turkey.

The New York Times

He's the only likely candidate.

Yale University

I'm not a very likely candidate.

Stanford University

Al Saunders, the Chiefs' offensive coordinator, is another likely candidate.

The New York Times

Renick is the most likely candidate to replace Alou.

The New York Times - Sports

One likely candidate is how people respond to stress.

The New York Times - Science

Syracuse remains a likely candidate to make the N.C.A.A. tournament.

The New York Times - Sports

The only other likely candidate is Pakistan, to the south.

The New York Times

Martin's former colleague Jens now looks the most likely candidate.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

A particularly likely candidate is the "irreparable harm" requirement.

The Washington Post

The likely candidate is Jerome York, a former Chrysler executive.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "likely candidate" when you want to indicate a strong possibility or probability, but avoid implying absolute certainty.

Common error

Avoid using "likely candidate" if the selection is already confirmed or a decision has been definitively made. Use more decisive language in such cases.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "likely candidate" functions as a noun phrase, where 'likely' modifies the noun 'candidate'. It typically acts as a subject complement or an object, identifying a person or thing with a high probability of being selected. Ludwig examples show this phrase used in varied contexts, from politics to science.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

51%

Academia

24%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "likely candidate" is a common and grammatically correct way to refer to someone or something with a high probability of being selected. As Ludwig confirms, it appears frequently in news, academic, and scientific contexts. To avoid redundancy, be mindful of using "most likely" unless additional emphasis is needed, and always ensure that the level of certainty conveyed by the phrase matches the actual likelihood of the outcome. Consider using synonyms such as "probable choice" or "leading contender" to add variety to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

probable choice

Replaces 'candidate' with 'choice', focusing on the selection aspect.

potential nominee

More specific to nominations, suggesting a formal selection process.

leading contender

Emphasizes competition and being in a strong position.

frontrunner

Highlights being ahead of other candidates or options.

promising prospect

Focuses on the potential and future success of the candidate.

expected selection

Shifts the focus to the anticipation of being chosen.

apparent successor

Suggests a clear path and expectation of taking over a role.

presumptive appointee

Highlights an assumption or expectation of being appointed.

most viable option

Focuses on the practicality and feasibility of the choice.

credible possibility

Emphasizes the believability and plausibility of the candidacy.

FAQs

How can I use "likely candidate" in a sentence?

You can use "likely candidate" to suggest that someone or something has a high probability of being chosen or successful. For example, "After the interviews, she emerged as the likely candidate for the job."

What are some alternatives to "likely candidate"?

Alternatives include "probable choice", "leading contender", or "frontrunner", depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "likely candidate" versus "certain candidate"?

"Likely candidate" suggests a strong possibility but not a guarantee, while "certain candidate" implies a confirmed choice. Use "likely candidate" when there is a high probability but still some uncertainty.

Is "most likely candidate" redundant?

While "most likely candidate" isn't grammatically incorrect, it can sometimes be redundant. "Likely candidate" already implies a high degree of probability, so "most" may not be necessary. However, it can be used for emphasis.