How to Say "contender" in Spanish
The Spanish word for “contender” is “candidato” — B1 level. This is a very common word in everyday Spanish.
English → SpanishB1
adjectiveB1
a strong possibility

Examples
Este plato es un candidato perfecto para la cena de Nochebuena.
This dish is a perfect candidate for Christmas Eve dinner.
La película es una seria candidata a ganar el Óscar este año.
The movie is a serious contender (or candidate) to win the Oscar this year.
Adjective Agreement
When 'candidato' describes a thing, it functions like an adjective and must match the thing's gender and number. For example, 'el plato es candidato' (masculine singular) but 'las películas son candidatas' (feminine plural).
Related Translations
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