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Definitions

in the running

Part of Speech:
Jump To:
ADJECTIVE
eligible
Synonyms
STRONGEST
acceptable likely qualified suitable
WEAK
appropriate becoming capable of desirable discretionary elective employable equal to fitted in line for licensed preferable privileged proper satisfactory seemly suited trained up to usable
Antonyms
STRONGEST
unacceptable
WEAK
improper inappropriate ineligible unfit unsuitable unsuited unworthy
ADJECTIVE
marriable
Synonyms
WEAK
marriageable suitable
NOUN
opening
Synonyms
STRONGEST
opportunity show time
STRONG
availability connection cut fling go occasion place possibility run scope shot squeak vacancy whack
WEAK
big break iron in the fire look-in
Antonyms
WEAK
closing closure conclusion ending finish misfortune solid

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.

See Examples For:

Four women and three men are so far in the running to succeed Antonio Guterres of Portugal, who will complete his second five-year term on December 31, 2026.

From Barron's ● Jul. 30, 2026

Chad could be in the running to be the third, especially if the Red Sox make the playoffs.

From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 23, 2026

Having been in the running to become chancellor, the former Labour leader made headlines as energy secretary in Sir Keir Starmer's cabinet, grabbing headlines for his championing of net zero policies.

From BBC ● Jul. 20, 2026

Here’s what you need to know about the 12 candidates in the running.

From Slate ● Jul. 16, 2026

If applause were any measure, Lois Carson wasn’t even in the running.

From "Farewell to Manzanar" by Jeanne Houston

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