Grammar fix
stand for election
stand for election
To compete as a candidate in an election, especially in British English.
collocation
How oftenNow and then
LevelB2
Used inSpeech & writing
Hear it in context
Notice where the phrase sounds natural.
She is standing for election as an independent councillor in May.
My uncle stood for election to the local council once. He didn't win, but he said knocking on doors and talking to people taught him a lot.
Fix the pattern
One small grammar move makes it sound right.
Not: She is standing to election as mayor.
Say: She is standing for election as mayor.
Use the preposition 'for' after 'stand' when talking about an election.
Don't confuse it
Other ways to say it
Try to get elected
Which regionAmericanBritish
run for officeEspecially American: compete for an elected public position.throw your hat in the ringUsed in both UK and US English: announce that you will compete, in an election or for a job, prize or competition.
stand for electionYou're here · Especially British: compete as a candidate in an election.