candidate / contender
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candidate
A person who is applying for an official position, title, or status and has a realistic prospect of getting it. Often used in the context of civil-service careers or training programs.
Nach dem Studium ist sie nun Anwärterin für den höheren diplomatischen Dienst.
After her studies, she is now a candidate for the higher diplomatic service.
'Anwärter' (candidate/contender) is almost always used with the preposition 'auf' and the accusative. You are an 'Anwärter auf' something that you want to get.
Er ist ein vielversprechender Anwärter auf die Beförderung.
He is a promising candidate for the promotion.
The word can be derived from 'anwarten' (to wait for something). So an 'Anwärter' (candidate/contender) is someone who is “waiting” for a position, title, or success and has a good chance of getting it.
Als Anwärter muss man oft eine Probezeit absolvieren.
As a candidate, you often have to complete a probationary period.
In this meaning, 'Anwärter' (candidate) is often used in formal or professional settings, especially in the civil service. It describes a person in official training or in a waiting position for a job.
Sie beginnt ihre Laufbahn als Lehramtsanwärterin an einer Grundschule.
She is beginning her career as a trainee teacher at an elementary school.
In sports or competitions, the combination 'heißer Anwärter' (strong contender) is often used. It describes a clear favorite for the victory or title.
Die französische Mannschaft ist ein heißer Anwärter auf den Weltmeistertitel.
The French team is a strong contender for the world championship title.
candidate
'der Kandidat' and 'der Anwärter' both refer to a person who wants to achieve a position, title, or victory. 'Kandidat' is more general and fits applications, elections, competitions, and exams. 'Anwärter' sounds more specific: the person often has a real chance of getting an official position, status, or title. In sports, people also say 'Anwärter' when someone is considered a promising contender. The words can be confused because both point toward a goal. As a practical rule: every 'Anwärter' can be a 'Kandidat', but not every 'Kandidat' is already a real 'Anwärter'.
Das Team ist ein ernsthafter Anwärter auf den Meistertitel.
The team is a serious contender for the championship title.
Der Chef lädt den Kandidaten morgen zu einem zweiten Gespräch ein.
The boss is inviting the candidate to a second interview tomorrow.