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.
contender
A person or team regarded as a favorite or promising candidate for a victory, prize, or title, especially in sports.
Die Mannschaft gilt als heißer Anwärter auf die Meisterschaft in dieser Saison.
The team is considered a strong contender for the championship this season.
'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
Ein Kandidat is generally a person who applies for a position or is being considered for it. An Anwärter is used more when this person has a realistic prospect of getting the position. Use Kandidat neutrally, and Anwärter for an especially promising application.
Nach dem erfolgreichen Gespräch gilt er als aussichtsreicher Anwärter auf die Stelle.
After the successful interview, he is considered a promising candidate for the position.
Für die Stelle gibt es mehrere Kandidaten mit unterschiedlicher Erfahrung.
There are several candidates with different levels of experience for the position.
