Candidate: meaning, definitions and examples

Generally used in the context of someone who is being considered for a job, position, or award.

• She is a strong candidate for the manager position.
• The university is promoting him as a candidate for the Nobel Prize.

Most commonly used to refer to someone who has formally applied for a job or a place in an organization or institution.

• All applicants must submit their resumes by Friday.
• The university received over 10,000 applicants this year.

Typically used to describe someone who has been officially suggested or proposed for a position, award, or honor.

• She is a nominee for the Best Actress award.
• The board announced their nominee for the director position.

Usually refers to someone competing in sports, competitions, or for a title, often implying a strong chance of winning.

• He is a leading contender for the championship title.
• The new film is a serious contender for the Best Picture award.

When referring to someone who is being considered for a position, job, or honor.

• She is a strong candidate for the manager position
• They reviewed all the candidates for the scholarship

When talking about someone who is competing, especially in a competition or contest.

• He is a top contender in the race
• The team is one of the main contenders for the championship

When referring to someone who is optimistic about achieving a particular goal or position.

• Many hopefuls attended the audition
• The aspiring singer is a hopeful in the talent show

When referring to someone who has been officially proposed for an award or an election.

• She is the nominee for the Best Actress award
• The party announced their nominee for the upcoming election