i Register
In some senses, candidate is marked as figuratively, obsolete, rare. Watch for register when choosing this word.
ADJ
potential, prospective
The company interviewed several potential candidates for the new marketing position yesterday.
likely, possible
The company interviewed several possible candidates for the new marketing position.
good, ideal, suitable
She seemed like an ideal candidate for the teaching job because of her experience.
unsuitable
successful
After the interview, we congratulated the successful candidate on winning the job.
congressional, ministerial, parliamentary, presidential | Conservative, Democratic, etc.
VERB + CANDIDATE
put yourself forward as, stand as
He put himself forward as a candidate for the school board election last month.
field, nominate, put up, run
The party decided to field a strong candidate for the upcoming presidential election.
back, support, vote for
choose, select
We chose an excellent candidate who had five years of experience in marketing.
reject
The hiring manager had to reject several candidates who lacked the required experience.
PREP
~ for
Three people applied, but he was the strongest candidate for the job.