very serious candidate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "very serious candidate" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who is genuinely committed and qualified for a position or opportunity, often in a professional or competitive context. Example: "After reviewing all the applications, we believe that Sarah is a very serious candidate for the role of project manager."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

A very serious candidate.

The Guardian

"She'd be a very, very serious candidate," Mr. Hudson said.

The New York Times

"You've got a woman running who is a very serious candidate.

The New York Times

In my opinion there is only one very serious candidate and it is England.

The Guardian - Sport

"For all those guys, Obama is a very serious candidate who will compete with them for the limited supply of activists and media attention".

The New York Times

"In her demeanor, in the way that she carried herself - she walked out of that debate where everybody said, 'She is a very serious candidate,' " Mr. Hemingway said Tuesday.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

"They were all very serious candidates".

The New York Times

But the state has a Republican governor, Tim Pawlenty, and Minnesota played host to the wrestler Jesse Ventura's successful insurgent grab for the governor's chair and has a very serious Senate candidate in the funnyman Al Franken.

The New York Times

So, without further ado, here are seven very serious game-changing candidates Democrats should consider, courtesy of The Huffington Post.

Huffington Post

And it turns out that mocking the very serious hobby of a candidate's wife — especially one who is extremely popular — is not a particularly good strategy.

The New York Times

Perhaps most revealing, 46% of swing state women expressed very serious doubts about Republican candidates who want to outlaw abortion in almost all cases, even in cases of rape, incest or when a woman's health is in danger; when coupled with those who expressed serious doubts, the figure jumps to 79%.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a candidate, specify the qualities that make them "very serious", such as their experience, qualifications, or dedication, to give a clearer picture of their suitability.

Common error

Avoid simply labeling someone a "very serious candidate" without providing supporting evidence. Instead, elaborate on their specific attributes and accomplishments that demonstrate their seriousness and qualifications.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "very serious candidate" functions as a descriptive adjective phrase modifying the noun "candidate". It serves to emphasize the candidate's dedication, qualifications, and commitment to the role or position they are seeking. Ludwig's AI confirms its correct usage in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "very serious candidate" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe an individual who is genuinely committed and qualified for a specific role. Ludwig confirms its appropriate usage across various sources. While the phrase is most commonly found in News & Media contexts, it is important to use it with supporting details to effectively communicate the candidate's specific attributes and accomplishments. Alternatives such as "highly credible contender" or "strong and qualified applicant" can provide similar emphasis with slightly different connotations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

highly credible contender

Emphasizes the candidate's believability and competitiveness.

strong and qualified applicant

Highlights the candidate's strength and suitability for the position.

formidable and earnest aspirant

Focuses on the candidate's impressive nature and sincere ambition.

considerably dedicated nominee

Stresses the candidate's commitment and nomination status.

genuinely committed individual

Highlights the candidate's sincere dedication.

exceptionally promising prospect

Focuses on the candidate's potential and positive outlook.

remarkably determined competitor

Emphasizes the candidate's strong resolve and competitive nature.

notably sincere contender

Focuses on the candidate's genuine nature and competitiveness.

a force to be reckoned with

This idiom emphasizes the candidate's potential and influence in the field.

a heavyweight in the race

This metaphor highlights the candidate's strength and importance compared to other candidates.

FAQs

How can I use "very serious candidate" in a sentence?

You can use "very serious candidate" to describe someone who is genuinely committed and qualified for a position or opportunity. For example, "After reviewing all the applications, we believe that Sarah is a "very serious candidate" for the role of project manager."

What can I say instead of "very serious candidate"?

You can use alternatives like "highly credible contender", "strong and qualified applicant", or "formidable and earnest aspirant" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "serious candidate" or "very serious candidate"?

Both "serious candidate" and "very serious candidate" are grammatically correct. The addition of "very" simply intensifies the seriousness of the candidate. The choice depends on the degree of emphasis you want to convey.

What's the difference between "serious candidate" and "promising candidate"?

"Serious candidate" implies that someone is genuinely committed and qualified, while "promising candidate" suggests potential and future success. A "serious candidate" has demonstrated capabilities, whereas a "promising candidate" shows the potential to develop those capabilities.