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Postulant Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ‘จโ€๐ŸŽ“
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postulant

[หˆpษ’stjสŠlษ™nt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

job application

A person who applies for a job or position, especially a candidate seeking admission into a religious order.

Synonyms

applicant, aspirant, candidate.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
postulant

Typically used in the context of someone seeking to join a religious order or community. It can also refer to someone who is a novice or probationer in this setting.

  • She spent a year as a postulant before taking her vows
  • The postulant was nervous about making a good impression on the other nuns
applicant

Commonly used in general situations where someone applies for a job, program, or opportunity.

  • The company received over 1000 applications, but only a few applicants were selected for interviews
  • Every applicant must fill out the form properly to be considered
candidate

Usually refers to someone being considered for a specific role or position, often through a selection process like a job interview or election.

  • There are five candidates running for the position of mayor
  • The hiring manager decided to extend an offer to the most promising candidate
aspirant

Often used to describe someone with a strong ambition or desire to achieve a particular role, honor, or position, especially in a competitive setting.

  • He is an aspirant for the undergraduate scholarship
  • The political aspirants debated their policies vigorously

Examples of usage

  • The postulant submitted her resume for the open position at the company.
  • He decided to become a postulant at the monastery.
Context #2 | Noun

religious context

A person who is seeking to become a member of a religious community and is undergoing a period of training and initiation.

Synonyms

aspirant, candidate, novice.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
postulant

Used primarily in religious or spiritual contexts, often referring to someone who is a candidate to join a religious order.

  • She decided to become a postulant at the local convent.
  • As a postulant, he devoted much of his time to prayer and reflection.
novice

Typically used to describe someone who is new to a field, activity, or profession and lacks experience.

  • As a novice singer, she was nervous for her first performance.
  • The computer course is designed for novices with no prior experience.
aspirant

Commonly used in formal contexts to describe someone aspiring to a particular position, role, or honor.

  • The young aspirant worked hard to gain admission to the prestigious university.
  • As an aspirant politician, she spent a great deal of time networking and campaigning.
candidate

Suitable for a general context when referring to someone being considered for a role, position, or award.

  • He is a strong candidate for the job due to his extensive experience.
  • The committee will review each candidate's qualifications before making a decision.

Examples of usage

  • The postulant spent a year in the monastery before taking her final vows.
  • He was accepted as a postulant at the convent.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Religious Significance

  • In many religious communities, postulants undergo a period of discernment, where they learn about the community's values and practices.
  • This initial stage is critical as it allows individuals to understand their calling and whether they fit into the lifestyle of the community.

Cultural Context

  • Various cultures have unique traditions for welcoming postulants, often involving rituals or special ceremonies.
  • In some Catholic orders, after being a postulant, individuals may take a formal vow of obedience, further solidifying their commitment.

Comparison in Other Fields

  • In academia, a postulant could be likened to a candidate applying for a program or job, preparing for acceptance into a new role.
  • Similar to a postulant, an apprentice in trades learns from skilled craftsmen before fully committing to the field.

Literature and Media

  • Postulants have been depicted in various novels, often symbolizing devotion but also personal struggle as they navigate faith and choice.
  • Films exploring religious themes sometimes feature postulants as characters, emphasizing their journey towards self-discovery and commitment.

Origin of 'postulant'

Main points about word origin

  • The word originates from the Latin 'postulantem,' which means 'to demand' or 'to request.'
  • In medieval times, postulants were often candidates preparing for a monastic life, highlighting their role in religious orders.

The word 'postulant' comes from the Latin word 'postulare', which means 'to ask, demand, or require'. Originally used in religious contexts, it has evolved to also refer to job applicants in a more general sense. The term has been used for centuries to describe individuals seeking admission into religious orders or applying for positions.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,777, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.