Candidates: meaning, definitions and examples

In general, referring to people being considered for a position, contest, or award, particularly in professional settings.

• There are three candidates for the position of project manager.
• The candidates for the award have been shortlisted.

Specifically referring to individuals who have formally applied for a job, course, or some form of application process.

• We received over 100 applicants for the software engineering role.
• Applicants must submit their documents by the end of the month.

Talking about people actively looking for job opportunities. Often used in a broader, more casual context than 'applicants'.

• The job fair was attended by hundreds of job seekers.
• Resources for job seekers can be found on our website.

Focusing on individuals who are not yet hired but might become employees, used more formally and strategically.

• We are hosting an event to attract prospective employees for our new branch.
• The company offers competitive salaries to its prospective employees.

Used to refer to people who are applying for jobs, positions, or are in the running for an election or award.

• We have three candidates for the open marketing position.
• The political candidates debated last night.

Used mainly in competitive contexts, such as sports or competitions, to describe those who have a good chance of winning.

• He is one of the top contenders for the championship title.
• Several contenders emerged in the early rounds of the competition.

Often used to describe people who aspire to achieve a specific goal or position, usually indicating effort and ambition.

• Many young aspirants dream of making it big in Hollywood.
• She is an aspirant for the position of CEO.

Refers to individuals who have been officially named or proposed for a position, award, or honor, often by a committee or organization.

• The nominees for the Best Actor award were announced today.
• Each political party has its nominees for the upcoming election.