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Language Foundation

Shortlisted

A job application is shortlisted when it has been chosen as one of a small number from a larger group for further consideration for the job.

In plain English

It means the application has passed an initial cut. It is now in a smaller selected group being looked at further for the job.

In context

Here, "Shortlisted" communicates that the candidate's application has been selected into a smaller pool for further consideration for the job.

Situation
Applying for jobs, reading vacancy labels, and following recruitment status
What it communicates
shows that the candidate has been chosen for a narrower pool.

Meaning limits

By itself, the term does not establish any final hiring decision.

Examples

“Out of 200 applicants, only twelve were shortlisted for the teaching post.”

Core meaning

“The coordinator confirmed that her application had been shortlisted for the role.”

In context

  • selected Broader Term

    Something shortlisted has been selected, but only as one of a small group for further consideration.

  • hired Contrast

    Shortlisted refers to an earlier stage and does not show that a final hiring decision has been made.