# front runner

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/front-runner
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

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

## Examples

- She is the front runner in the race.
- After the latest debate, the senator became the clear front runner for the party nomination.
- Although the newcomer performed well, the experienced mayor remained the undisputed front runner throughout the entire election cycle.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.