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.

It is high time a woman took charge of the United Nations, argued three of the candidates in the running to take over as secretary-general, at a debate on Tuesday.

From Barron's • Jun. 9, 2026

He was in the running against Nathan Lane in the season’s most talk-about show’s “Death of a Salesman,” and many bets were surely placed on the latter to sweep.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 8, 2026

The interest in the 23-year-old is genuine, though the Gunners are not the only club in the running for Rogers with Manchester United also monitoring the forward's situation.

From BBC • Jun. 1, 2026

There is recent precedent for the play that wins the Pulitzer to also find itself in the running for a Tony.

From Los Angeles Times • May 4, 2026

Now there’s footage of Rosa in the running wheelchair as I push her down the block.

From "The Running Dream" by Wendelin Van Draanen

in the running

Example Sentences

Related Words