front runner

US /ˈfrʌnt ˌrʌn.ər/
UK /ˈfrʌnt ˌrʌn.ər/
"front runner" picture
1.

the person, animal, or organization that is most likely to win a race or competition

:
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The candidate is currently the front runner in the polls.
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Our team is the front runner for the championship this year.
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leaderfavoritepacesettercontendertop dog
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runnerfrontin front ofrunner beanrunner-uppinch runnerrunner's high