English Reference
Idiom idiom

front runner


Any of the most likely winners in a contest, election, etc.

Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.


SIMPLE

She is the front runner in the race.

CONTEXTUAL

After the latest debate, the senator became the clear front runner for the party nomination.

COMPLEX

Although the newcomer performed well, the experienced mayor remained the undisputed front runner throughout the entire election cycle.


Related idioms6entries
  1. 01

    front and center

    A command to approach the center of attention of an assemblage, as of military personnel or students.

  2. 02

    front of mind

    Synonym of top of mind.

  3. 03

    put one foot in front of the other

    To move forward, progress steadily.

  4. 04

    runners and riders

    The candidates in a competition or leadership contest.

  5. 05

    take the front seat

    to take priority

  6. 06

    up front

    Open, honest; tending to disclose information; truthful.

Last updated August 10, 2026