likely candidate for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "likely candidate for" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing someone or something that has a good chance of being selected or chosen for a particular role, position, or situation. Example: "After reviewing all the applicants, she emerged as the likely candidate for the leadership position."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But like many gay men, R. never thought of himself as a likely candidate for fatherhood.

The New York Times - Magazine

A less likely candidate for bloodshed is hard to imagine.

The New York Times

Ms. Davis seems a likely candidate for a statewide run.

The New York Times

Looks the least likely candidate for his stable.

Independent

(outside Flint), is the most likely candidate for Nascar stardom.

The New York Times

Right now there is no more likely candidate for that peppermint tiara than Kate Bosworth.

The New York Times

Because that is the language of undermining your potential and likely candidate for president.

The Guardian - Opinion

He will certainly do until a more likely candidate for the title comes along.

The New York Times

Mr. Lutnick might not seem a likely candidate for such nurturing leadership.

The New York Times

Certain distinctions in Ohio's laws also made the state a likely candidate for change.

The New York Times

QUESTION FROM FRV: What about Tunisia made it a likely candidate for revolution?

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "likely candidate for", ensure that the context clearly establishes the criteria or qualifications that make the subject a strong contender. Provide supporting details or reasons to reinforce the assertion.

Common error

Avoid stating that someone or something is a "likely candidate for" a role or position without providing any supporting evidence or reasons. This can weaken your argument and make it seem subjective rather than objective.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "likely candidate for" functions as a modifier, specifically an adjectival phrase, that describes a noun. It indicates that the noun is a strong contender or a probable choice for something. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

37%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "likely candidate for" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe someone or something that has a high probability of being selected or successful, as supported by Ludwig AI. Predominantly found in News & Media and Science contexts, it serves to express an assessment of suitability and expectations. When using this phrase, remember to provide supporting evidence to strengthen your claim and avoid vague assertions. Alternatives include "probable choice for" or "potential contender for", depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

probable choice for

Focuses on the probability of being selected.

potential contender for

Highlights the aspect of competing for a role or position.

leading prospect for

Emphasizes the forward-looking aspect and the potential for future success.

front-runner for

Indicates being ahead of others in a competition or selection process.

strong possibility for

Focuses on the chance or likelihood of something happening or someone being chosen.

prime suspect for

Used when referring to a possible culprit or cause, particularly in investigative contexts.

viable option for

Suggests that something is a realistic and workable choice.

promising applicant for

Highlights the qualities and potential of someone applying for something.

eligible nominee for

Indicates someone who meets the criteria for being nominated or considered.

suitable person for

Emphasizes the appropriateness and fitness of someone for a specific role or task.

FAQs

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

You can use "likely candidate for" to describe someone or something that has a good chance of being selected or successful. For example, "She is the "likely candidate for" the promotion because of her experience."

What are some alternatives to "likely candidate for"?

Some alternatives include "probable choice for", "potential contender for", or "leading prospect for", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "likely candidate to" or "likely candidate for"?

"Likely candidate for" is the correct and more commonly used phrasing. "Likely candidate to" is grammatically incorrect in this context.

What does it mean to be a "likely candidate for" something?

To be a "likely candidate for" something means that you possess the qualities, skills, or characteristics that make you a strong contender or a probable choice for a particular role, position, or opportunity.