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be in the running

VERB
compete
Synonyms
STRONGEST
battle challenge clash contend contest face fight play spar try vie wrestle
STRONG
attempt bandy bid collide emulate encounter essay fence grapple joust oppose rival strive struggle tilt tussle
WEAK
cope with go after go for go for broke go for the gold in the hunt jockey for position lock horns match strength match wits participate in pit oneself against run for scramble for seek prize take on take part
Antonyms
STRONGEST
agree give up make peace retreat surrender
STRONG
aid assist forget help let go release support yield

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Here are the names of those believed to be in the running for the job and what they could mean for your finances.

From BBC • Jun. 23, 2026

Lingard believes Fernandes should be in the running anyway.

From BBC • Apr. 27, 2026

It’s not clear who will replace her, though Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lee Zeldin is rumored to be in the running.

From Slate • Apr. 2, 2026

I’m definitely trying to make strides for independents to be in the running for these major awards though because it’s like a shot in the arm!

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 25, 2026

The flag-bearer was determined by a vote by my US teammates across all sports, and I was honored to even be in the running with world-famous athletes like Carmelo Anthony, Serena Williams, and Allyson Felix.

From "Proud" by Ibtihaj Muhammad

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