Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Showing results for in the running. Search instead for instancerunning.
Definitions

in the running

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.

Bob Mortimer is also in the entertainment performance race for his victorious stint in the first series of Last One Laughing, which is in the running for best entertainment programme.

From BBC • May 9, 2026

‘The Lost Boys,’ ‘Titanique’ and ‘Schmigadoon!’ are among the contenders for best musical, while the Pulitzer-winning ‘Liberation’ and the Roald Dahl bio-drama ‘Giant’ are in the running for best play.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 6, 2026

"Two of the three big European airline groups... are in the running, which demonstrates the attractiveness of the company as well as the country," said Finance Minister Joaquim Miranda Sarmento.

From Barron's • Apr. 23, 2026

They’re a little more involved in the running game now, Cover 2 things and corner pressures, blitzing off the edge, they’ve done a really nice job.”

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 14, 2026

There was no joy in the running this time, but there was relief that his body served him.

From "Pax" by Sara Pennypacker