hopefuls

Hopefuls is a noun used to describe individuals who hope to attain a particular position, opportunity, or outcome and have not yet been chosen or confirmed. The term is widely used across contexts where selection is anticipated, including politics, employment, entertainment, sports, and education.

In politics, hopefuls are candidates seeking office; the phrase is common in reporting on elections, such as references to “presidential hopefuls” or “primary hopefuls.” In recruitment, job hopefuls are applicants aiming to secure a vacancy. In other fields, hopefuls may audition or compete for admission, roles, or prizes, highlighting the aspirational phase of a process.

The term emphasizes aspiration and potential rather than outcome, and its tone can vary with context from neutral to mildly anticipatory. It is often paired with a domain to specify the field, for example, “statewide hopefuls” or “talent show hopefuls.” Related terms include aspirant, candidate, and contender, which share the sense of someone aiming for a particular goal.

In summary, hopefuls denotes people in the early stages of selection who hope to achieve a desired position or opportunity, commonly used in media and formal discussions about elections, hiring, and competitive opportunities.