in the running

phrase

1
: competing in a contest
2
: having a chance to win a contest

Examples of in the running in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The supporting actor race finds several multiple nominees in the running alongside an icon among Latino entertainment figures looking for his first-ever nod. — Los Angeles Times, 28 Oct. 2026 On October 2nd, just as Major League Baseball’s Division Series was kicking off, the main MLB Instagram and TikTok accounts posted a video hyping up the teams still in the running for the World Series. — Mia Sato, The Verge, 27 Oct. 2026 Arab parties are also in the running, but most of the main Jewish parties have ruled out alliances with them. — Chloe Taylor, CNBC, 26 Oct. 2026 Each team is still in the running for the SEC title game, while every conference team besides Georgia and Kentucky has two losses. — Trey Wallace Outkick, FOXNews.com, 25 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for in the running

Word History

First Known Use

1869, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of in the running was in 1869

Rhymes for in the running

See All Rhymes for in the running

Browse Nearby Words

in the round
in the running
in the saddle
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“In the running.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/in%20the%20running. Accessed 31 Oct. 2026.

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