ENGLISH
REFERENCE

contender

n.
US //kənˈtɛndɝ// UK //kəntˈɛndɐ// con·tender
  1. 1 a strong competitor (n.)
    C1 Advanced Formal

    someone who has a good chance of winning a race, a game, or an election.

    a competitor with a realistic prospect of success in a contest or for a position of authority.

    Example

    After winning three games in a row, the team is now a serious contender for the trophy.

    Example

    The senator emerged as a leading contender for the nomination after a series of impressive debate performances and a surge in fundraising.

    Usage

    Often used with the preposition 'for' to indicate the prize or position being sought.

    Teacher's tip

    While any participant is a competitor, a 'contender' is specifically someone perceived as having the strength to actually win.
Origin

From contend + -er.

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