contender
7 synonyms for contender, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A person who competes against others, especially one with a real chance of winning.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use contender
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
leading contender
title contender
Etymology
From contend + the agent suffix -er.
Full origin of contender →Frequently asked questions
What does “contender” mean?
The word “contender” means a person who competes against others, especially one with a real chance of winning. In plain terms, someone competing for a prize or title, especially one with a decent shot at winning.
How do you pronounce “contender”?
“Contender” is pronounced kuhn-TEHN-d (/kənˈtɛn.dɚ/ in IPA).
How do you use “contender” in a sentence?
Here is “contender” used in a sentence: “She is considered a serious contender for the championship.”
What part of speech is “contender”?
“Contender” is a noun.
Is “contender” a common word?
“Contender” is an uncommon word in modern English.
What is the difference between a "contender" and a "candidate"?
A contender is a person who competes against others, especially one with a real chance of winning, and the word often implies genuine strength or credibility. A candidate is simply someone running or being considered for a position, without necessarily implying they have a strong chance.
Is "contender" used only in sports and competitions?
While "contender" is very common in sports, describing someone with a real chance of winning a title or match, it is also used more broadly for political races, business rivalries, and other competitive situations.
What is the difference between a "contender" and a "challenger"?
A contender is generally someone with a real chance of winning, regardless of their current position, while a challenger specifically refers to someone competing against an established title-holder or leader.
