# nominate

/ˈnɑməˌneɪt/ (US) · /nˈɒmɪnˌeɪt/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/nominate
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. to propose for a role

verb · CEFR B2

to officially suggest someone for a job, a prize, or a political position.

For teachers: to formally propose a person for an office, award, or elective position. Transitive; requires a direct object.

- The committee decided to nominate her for the 'Teacher of the Year' award.
- The party members met behind closed doors to nominate a candidate who could appeal to both rural and urban voters.

Usage: Often used in the passive voice: 'She was nominated for...'

Teaching tip: Learners often confuse this with 'appoint'. Remind them that nominating is just the suggestion; the person still has to win or be chosen.

### 2. to name or designate

verb · CEFR C1 · Formal

to choose or name something for a specific purpose.

For teachers: to designate or name a person or thing for a specific duty or status. Often used in formal or legal contexts.

- You must nominate a person to handle your affairs if you are away.
- The treaty allows each participating nation to nominate two representatives to the international oversight council.

Usage: Commonly followed by a noun phrase or 'as' + noun phrase.

### 3. to call a shot

verb · CEFR C1 · Technical

in games like pool, to say which pocket you are aiming for before you hit the ball.

For teachers: to specify a target or intended outcome in advance, particularly in cue sports. Transitive use.

- In this version of the game, you have to nominate the pocket for every shot.
- The player failed to nominate the corner pocket, resulting in a foul despite successfully potting the black ball.

## Examples

- I want to nominate you for the employee of the month award.
- The committee will nominate three candidates to lead the new research department by the end of the week.
- Although several members were eager to nominate the incumbent for a second term, the board decided to open the floor to external applicants to ensure a fair selection process.

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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.