lead candidate
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lead candidate
The leading person on a political party's electoral list who, if the party wins the election, usually aims for the highest government office (e.g., federal chancellor or state premier).
Der Spitzenkandidat der Partei stellte im Fernsehen sein Wahlprogramm vor.
The party's lead candidate presented his election platform on television.
This word is made up of 'Spitze' (top/lead), the linking element '-n-,' and 'Kandidat' (candidate). 'Die Spitze' here means 'the leadership' or 'the top position.' A 'Spitzenkandidat' is therefore literally the candidate at the top.
Die Partei hat ihren Spitzenkandidaten für die Wahl nominiert.
The party nominated its lead candidate for the election.
The word element 'Spitzen-' is often used to describe something as top-class or leading. If you recognize this pattern, you will also understand other words such as 'Spitzensportler' (top athlete), 'Spitzenleistung' (top performance), or 'Spitzenposition' (top position).
Er ist ein Spitzensportler und hat viele Medaillen gewonnen.
He is a top athlete and has won many medals.
This term is used almost exclusively in a political context, especially in elections. It refers to the person who is aiming for the highest office for a party.
Die Spitzenkandidaten der großen Parteien trafen sich zu einer Fernsehdebatte.
The lead candidates of the major parties met for a televised debate.
candidate
'der Kandidat' and 'der Spitzenkandidat' can both refer to people who run in an election. 'der Kandidat' is the more general word: there can be many candidates, including for smaller offices or positions. 'der Spitzenkandidat' is a special kind of candidate in politics. He is at the top of a party or list and is often expected to take on the most important office. Learners may confuse the words because every 'Spitzenkandidat' is also a 'Kandidat'. But not every 'Kandidat' is a 'Spitzenkandidat'.
Der Spitzenkandidat der Partei spricht heute Abend im Fernsehen.
The party's lead candidate is speaking on television this evening.
Der Kandidat beantwortet nach der Diskussion die Fragen der Wähler.
After the discussion, the candidate answers the voters' questions.