Candidate Meaning
Candidate Definition & Usage
A person who is being considered for a particular position, role, or opportunity, typically in the context of elections, job applications, or competitions.
Examples
- "She is the leading candidate for the position of CEO."
- "The candidates for the presidency will face off in a live debate tonight."
- "I interviewed three candidates for the job, but none of them seemed quite right."
- "After a long selection process, he was chosen as the candidate for the local council election."
- "The university is now accepting applications from candidates for its prestigious scholarship program."
A person or thing that has the potential to meet certain conditions or standards, often used when considering options or alternatives.
Examples
- "This car seems like a good candidate for a long road trip."
- "The blue dress is the best candidate for tonight’s event."
- "Is he a good candidate for the scholarship program?"
- "Given her experience, she's an excellent candidate for the position."
- "The old building might be a good candidate for renovation."
Cultural Context
The word 'candidate' derives from the Latin 'candidatus,' which originally meant someone who was a candidate for political office and wore white clothing to symbolize purity and honesty. Over time, it evolved to encompass a broader range of roles, from job applicants to contestants in competitions.
The Campaign Trail
Story
The Campaign Trail
In a bustling town preparing for its mayoral election, there were several candidates vying for the coveted position. Among them was Maria, a local entrepreneur who had spent years serving her community. As the campaign trail heated up, she found herself navigating both the formal and informal definitions of 'candidate.' While she was the formal nominee from her party, she also knew she had to be the ideal 'candidate' in the eyes of the voters, proving she was the right fit for the job. On the first night of the debates, Maria faced her main rival, Tom. He was a seasoned politician, but his lack of enthusiasm for new ideas had made many people question his suitability. At the debate, Maria spoke passionately about her plans for the town, positioning herself as not just a political 'candidate' but also the best 'candidate' for the challenges ahead. Her authenticity shone through as she spoke about her roots in the community. After the debate, a local journalist approached Maria. "You’re a strong candidate for the job, but how do you feel about your competition?" he asked. Maria smiled. "I respect my opponents, but I believe I’m the best candidate for the people of this town. I’m not just running for office; I’m here to make a real difference." As the weeks passed, the townspeople began to see Maria as more than just a political figure. She became the 'candidate' everyone rallied behind, not just because of her qualifications but because she was genuinely in touch with the needs of the people. When the election day finally arrived, Maria had proved that being a candidate wasn’t just about running for office—it was about being the right person for the job, someone who understood the community's needs and aspirations. Her success was a testament to how a 'candidate' could embody both the formal role of nomination and the deeper, informal quality of being truly suitable for a task. The voters had spoken: Maria was their candidate for change.
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