Formal:
* The incumbent candidate was a clear winner, leaving the also-rans far behind in the polls.
* Despite a valiant effort, the young startup was an also-ran in the competitive tech industry.
* In the world of professional sports, many athletes become also-rans after years of grueling training.
Informal:
* I was an also-ran in the baking competition, but I learned a lot about the craft.
* They tried to make their mark in the music industry, but they ended up as also-rans in the end.
* Don't worry about being an also-ran in this race, it's all about participating and having fun.
Figurative:
* After years of being an also-ran in the literary world, her novel finally achieved critical acclaim.
* His ideas were initially dismissed as the ramblings of an also-ran in the field of science.
Remember: "Also-ran" is often used in a negative or slightly humorous light. It implies someone who is unsuccessful or less important than the winner or main competitor.