Translation guide
The person or thing that is leading in a race, competition, or election. In Japanese, this is expressed with specific nouns and phrases depending on context.
He is the front runner for the next president.
Literally 'favorite', used for the most likely winner in races, elections, or contests.
He is seen as the front runner in the election.
Loanword from English, often used in sports or business contexts for the leading person or company.
He is the front runner in the marathon.
Literally 'lead runner', used in track or road races. More literal and less common in metaphorical use.
The front runner picked up the pace.
The company or product that is ahead in a market or industry.
有力候補 is a strong candidate, while 本命 implies the favorite or most likely winner. 本命 is often used in predictions, whereas 有力候補 is more neutral.
He is a strong candidate, but not the front runner.
This product is the front runner in the market.