shortlist

Everyday

1. A shortlist is a small list of the best people or things, chosen from a bigger group, from which the final winner will be picked. tree →
2. To shortlist someone or something is to put them on that list. tree →

In the lessons

Used for prizes, jobs and competitions: a book is shortlisted for an award, a person is shortlisted for a job interview. In school, poems or posters may be shortlisted for a competition. It tells the reader that something is close to winning but has not won yet. Phrases: «on the shortlist», «make the shortlist», «be shortlisted for».

Examples

• Three stories made the shortlist for the writing prize. tree →
• My poster was shortlisted, but it did not win. tree →
• The company shortlisted five people for interview. tree →
• We drew up a shortlist of names for the new puppy. tree →
• The book has been shortlisted for a big award. tree →
• Out of fifty songs, the judges chose a shortlist of six. tree →

Note

Also written «short list» or «short-list». Regular verb: shortlisted, shortlisting. Being shortlisted is good news but not winning; the final choice comes after. Do not confuse it with «a short list» meaning just a list that is not long.