Synonyms for

Candidates

Verb / ˈkændʌdeɪts / / ˈkænʌdɪts / Another word for candidates — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

A candidate is a person who seeks or is nominated for an office, position, or award.

Synonyms & similar words

candidate nominee prospect campaigner contender applicant hopeful nominee aspirant competitor entrant runner contender suitor campaigner office-seeker postulant possibility prospect selection substitute challenger contestant rival

Synonyms by register

Formal

applicants nominees contenders aspirants

Informal

hopefuls runners guys people

Literary

suitors pretenders

Antonyms

rejects losers failures non-starters unsuccessfuls underperformers

Common collocations

  • job candidates
  • election candidates
  • potential candidates
  • leading candidates
  • candidate pool
  • candidate selection
  • candidate profile
  • candidate list

Word family

noun candidacy
verb candidate

Usage note

While 'candidate' can sometimes be used informally to refer to anyone being considered for something, its primary use is in formal contexts like elections or job applications. Avoid using it for general 'people' unless the context is very clear.

Example sentences

  1. There are two candidates running for mayor in our city.
  2. The candidates were interviewed by the selection committee.
  3. The company received hundreds of candidates for the job opening.
  4. She is a strong candidate for the position.
  5. The candidate's experience and qualifications were impressive to the employer.

Quotes

  • "A candidate is someone who listens to people who do not believe in him, who criticize him, and who make him feel uncomfortable." - Hillary Clinton
  • "I'm a candidate for president of the United States of America, and I'm not running for student council." - Mitt Romney
  • "The best candidate doesn't always get the job. It's the one who interviews the best." - John Lasseter

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