wildcard

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "wildcard" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in contexts such as computing, card games, or discussions about flexibility and unpredictability. Example: "In this programming language, the asterisk (*) acts as a wildcard, allowing you to match any sequence of characters."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

On the subject of the cost of Eurovision to SBS, Ebeid said the cost of the entry fee for Australian wildcard entrant, Guy Sebastian, to compete in the Eurovision Song Contest was paid by Sony Music.

The Guardian

In a World Cup year – when the pressure to achieve is at its most intense – the national coach would be given the freedom to select one wildcard pick from outside the domestic game.

The Guardian - Sport

However, she won the Australian wildcard playoff event to guarantee herself entry into the main draw, and could cause a few upsets with her looping groundies.

The Guardian - Sport

Seventeen-year-old Sydneysider Jordan Thompson earned his spot in the main draw, winning the Australian wildcard playoff event, and will be one to watch after pushing French world No 9 Richard Gasquet to a third-set tie-break at Kooyong on Wednesday.

The Guardian - Sport

In front of a small studio audience, Farage chose to discuss the issues of immigration, the European Union and democracy, while the young voters opted for the wildcard topic of education.

The Guardian

After Samberg and Lautner, Herzog could be the wildcard guest star capable of getting a third season greenlit.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Britain's Electro Velvet secured a paltry five points for their song, Still in Love with You, on a night also notable for the first appearance of Australia, a wildcard entry to mark the show's 60th incarnation.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

In a surprise coup for the tournament, Hewitt is rumoured to have entered with retired legend Pat Rafter – the pair expected to get a wildcard into the event.

The Guardian - Sport

Googling a bit for the wildcard phrase "* store" shows the variability: you buy containers at the Container Store, but you don't buy UPS at the UPS Store, nor MoMA at the MoMA Store.Many peeves seem to take this form: if a thing works one way in one example, it must work that way in every example.

The Economist

The wildcard is the Wii, which could trump the competition by attracting entirely new customers.

The Economist

A wildcard candidate is Razaleigh Hamzah, a veteran UMNO maverick minister, who featured on Mr Zahrain's list of eight, and publicly admonishes his own party for its corrupt ways.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In more general contexts, use "wildcard" to describe elements that introduce unpredictability or contingency, making sure the context highlights this uncertainty.

Common error

Avoid using "wildcard" when a more precise term exists. Overusing it can dilute its impact and create confusion if the context doesn't genuinely involve unpredictability or a deliberate contingency. For example, don't use it when the correct word to use is "variable".

Linguistic Context

The word "wildcard" functions primarily as a noun, denoting either a character in computing that can substitute for any other, or an unpredictable element. Ludwig confirms its use across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Sport

20%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Science

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "wildcard" is a versatile noun, often used to describe an element of unpredictability or a character that can substitute for others in computing. Ludwig's analysis confirms that the term is grammatically sound and frequently used across various contexts, especially in News & Media and Sport, as shown by the numerous examples. While it's generally acceptable, being mindful of context is crucial; as a writer, you should use a more precise term when appropriate, as suggested in the most common errors section. In essence, "wildcard" effectively communicates the presence of uncertainty or adaptability, but clarity and precision should always guide your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

wild card entry

Specifically emphasizes the granting of special entry without meeting standard qualifications.

surprise contender

Focuses on the unexpected entry or rise of a competitor.

unpredictable factor

Emphasizes the element of surprise and lack of predictability.

dark horse

Highlights the unexpected victory or success of an underestimated contender.

unknown quantity

Highlights the uncertain nature and potential impact of the element.

maverick player

Focuses on the unconventional and independent behavior of a participant.

contingency plan

Focuses on the aspect of having a backup or reserve option.

unforeseen circumstance

Highlights the unexpected and unplanned nature of the occurrence.

variable element

Stresses the changing and adaptable nature of the component.

sleeper agent

Implies a hidden potential or capability that may emerge unexpectedly.

FAQs

How can I use "wildcard" in a sentence?

You can use "wildcard" to refer to something unpredictable or a character that can represent others, like: "Turkey is the "wildcard" with regards to Aleppo" or "The asterisk (*) acts as a "wildcard" in many search functions".

What's a good alternative to the word "wildcard"?

Depending on the context, alternatives to "wildcard" can be "unpredictable factor", "contingency plan", or "surprise contender".

Is it correct to use "wildcard" to describe a person?

Yes, it's acceptable. It typically implies that the person is unpredictable or brings an element of surprise to a situation. For example: "Herzog could be the "wildcard" guest star capable of getting a third season greenlit."

What does "wildcard entry" mean in sports?

A "wildcard entry" refers to a participant who is allowed to enter a competition despite not meeting the standard qualification criteria. For example: "Australia, a "wildcard" entry to mark the show's 60th incarnation."