Contender: meaning, definitions and examples

Used primarily when discussing someone who has a good chance of winning a competition or achieving a goal. Often found in contexts like sports, competitions, or even awards.

• She is a strong contender for the gold medal.
• This novel is a major contender for the literary award this year.

Generally used in any scenario where individuals or entities are in competition with one another, especially in business, sports, or academic fields.

• She is a tough competitor in the talent show.
• Our main competitors in the market have just released a new product.

Often used for someone who is trying to take the position of someone else, such as in a political race, sports, or any competitive scenario. It implies active effort to unseat the current leader.

• The young senator is a formidable challenger in the upcoming elections.
• He was the challenger in the boxing match, hoping to win the title.

Used to indicate a personal or ongoing competition between two entities or individuals. It often implies a sense of long-term antagonism or enmity.

• She has been his rival since their school days.
• Their company is our main rival in the industry.

A contender is someone who is competing to win something, especially in sports or a competition. This term is broad and not limited to any specific sport.

• She is a strong contender for the championship title this year

Fighter is a more general term that can refer to anyone who fights, whether in sports, combat, or life in general. It can also imply someone who is determined and doesn't give up easily.

• Despite many obstacles, she is a true fighter and never gives up

Boxer specifically refers to a person who fights in the sport of boxing, using fists and following specific rules.

• He has been training as a boxer for over ten years and has won several titles

Pugilist is an old-fashioned and formal term for a boxer. It is rarely used in casual conversation and often appears in historical or literary contexts.

• In the 19th century, London was home to many famous pugilists