popularity contest

A "popularity contest" often implies that success is achieved through likability rather than skill or merit.

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Definition

(informal, figurative)A competition where the winner is chosen based on votes or support from others, not on objective criteria.

Winning the student council election felt more like a popularity contest than a real vote on qualifications.
The award turned into a popularity contest, with the most charming contestant taking the prize.

(informal, figurative)A situation where success is achieved based on likability rather than merit.

Some believe the hiring process at the company is just a popularity contest.
Critics argue that the show has become a popularity contest rather than a talent competition.

Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "popularity contest":