make to the shortlist

USAGE SUMMARY

Sentence The phrase "make to the shortlist" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used in the context of someone making a list of finalists for something such as a job application or a competition. Example: The recruiter narrowed down the list of applicants and made six people to the shortlist for the position.

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Even if you don't make it to the shortlist don't give up.

The Guardian

Sadly, he did not make it to the shortlist.

The Guardian

In practice, the party usually ensures that only its endorsed candidates make it to the shortlist.

The Economist

Finally, if you make it to the shortlist, then you've already won.

The Guardian

Her previous books, White Teeth and The Autograph Man, were both longlisted for the prize, but did not make it to the shortlist stage.

The Guardian

I've seen many women make it to the shortlist, but then lose the seat to a male candidate more adept at seeking active advocacy while competing for the position.

Huffington Post

The International Olympic Committee will announce the candidate cities that have made it to the shortlist in 2016, before the vote of the host city in summer 2017.

The Guardian - Sport

Books by two journalists, one a Pulitzer prizewinner, the other a Nobel laureate, have made it to the shortlist announced on Monday for the £30,000 Baillie Gifford prize for non-fiction.

The Guardian

The two authors heavily tipped to take this year's most coveted and dreaded literary prize have failed to make the shortlist.

The Guardian - Books

This year, Ian McEwan's "Enduring Love," which had been "tipped" to win, failed even to make the shortlist, and the bookmakers were forced to revise their odds.

The New Yorker

Bruce Springsteen's memoirs may have received much praise and exposure, but they have failed to impress judges enough to make the shortlist.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for clarity, ensure the context clearly defines the criteria for the shortlist to avoid ambiguity. For example, specify if it's a job application, award nomination, or competition.

Common error

Avoid assuming a universal understanding of the selection criteria. Always clarify the specific qualifications and attributes sought for inclusion on the shortlist.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make to the shortlist" functions as a purpose connector, suggesting an aim or goal. While Ludwig AI indicates the phrase is correct, its infrequent usage suggests other alternatives might be preferable.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

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News & Media

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Formal & Business

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "make to the shortlist" is grammatically correct, but its usage is uncommon. While Ludwig AI confirms its correctness, the limited examples suggest that alternatives like "reach the shortlist" or "be shortlisted" are more prevalent and may be preferred for clarity. Its purpose is to express the aim of being included in a selection of top candidates. This phrase maintains a neutral register, suitable for a range of contexts, but lacks the formality often needed in business or academic settings. Therefore, while technically correct, it's essential to consider the context and audience when deciding whether to use "make to the shortlist".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reach the shortlist

Focuses on the action of successfully arriving at the selection.

be selected for the shortlist

Highlights the act of being chosen for the selection.

qualify for the shortlist

Emphasizes meeting the necessary criteria to be included.

get onto the shortlist

Suggests overcoming obstacles to be included in the selection.

be shortlisted

A more concise, passive form of the original phrase.

make the cut for the shortlist

Implies a competitive process of elimination.

advance to the shortlist

Indicates progression to a further stage of selection.

earn a place on the shortlist

Stresses the effort or merit required to be included.

be among the shortlisted candidates

Specifies inclusion within a group of selected individuals.

succeed in reaching the shortlist

Emphasizes the successful outcome of an attempt to be included.

FAQs

How can I use "make to the shortlist" in a sentence?

While grammatically sound, "make to the shortlist" is not as common as other similar phrases. Consider using alternatives like "reach the shortlist" or "be shortlisted" for clearer communication.

What does it mean to "make to the shortlist"?

It means to be included in a selection of top candidates or items, typically after an initial screening process.

Which is correct, "make to the shortlist" or "make the shortlist"?

"Make the shortlist" is the more common and preferred phrasing. While "make to the shortlist" is grammatically possible, it's less frequently used.

Are there more professional alternatives to "make to the shortlist"?

In professional contexts, consider using phrases like "qualify for the shortlist" or "be selected for the shortlist" to convey a more formal tone.