Definition

A person who takes part in a semifinal round of a competition, where the winners advance to the final round.

Example

She was excited to be a semifinalist in the national singing competition.

Conversation

Did you hear that Sarah is a semifinalist in the talent show?

No way! That's amazing, she really deserves it.

I know, right? I can't wait to see her perform in the semifinals.

Same here! I hope she makes it to the finals.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Semifinalist → It is formed from "semi-" (meaning half) and "final" (from Latin "finalis", meaning pertaining to the end or limit) and "-ist" (meaning a person who). A semifinalist is a person who reaches the half-way point in a competition leading to the final round.

Memory Tip

Think of 'semi-' meaning half, and 'final' referring to the end — a semifinalist is someone who is halfway to the final.

Visually Confused Words