Meaning & use

candidate

noun·Everyday

A person who applies for a job, seeks an elected position, or is being considered for something.

See it in a sentence

Three candidates applied for the marketing position, but only one had relevant international experience.

The committee narrowed the list to two candidates before scheduling final interviews next week.

A note on using this word

Candidate is often followed by for (a candidate for mayor); use nominee once someone has been formally proposed.

Words with a similar meaning

applicantcontendernominee

Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.

Make it your own

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