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compete
/kəmˈpiːt/
strive to win
Athletes from around the world compete in the Olympics.
Athletes from different countries try to win medals in the Olympic Games.
neutral
To strive against another or others to achieve or win something, especially in a contest or game.
Several companies compete for market share in the tech industry.
Multiple companies try to gain a larger portion of the market in technology.
Students compete in a science fair to showcase their projects.
Students present their projects in a competition to demonstrate their skills.
Often used with 'against' or 'for' to specify the competitors or the goal.
neutral
To participate in a contest or rivalry, especially in sports or business.
She decided to compete in the marathon despite her injury.
She chose to participate in the marathon even though she was injured.
Can imply physical, mental, or strategic effort.
Collocations
compete againstto strive against someone or somethingcompete forto strive to obtain somethingcompete into participate in a contest or event
Antonyms
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Usage with 'against' vs 'for'
Use 'compete against' when referring to opponents (e.g., 'compete against rivals'). Use 'compete for' when referring to a goal or prize (e.g., 'compete for the championship').
Gold Rule
Avoid redundancy
Do not pair 'compete' with words like 'against each other' or 'with one another' unless necessary for clarity. 'Compete' inherently implies rivalry.
Word Origin
From Latin 'competere' (to strive together, be in rivalry), from 'com-' (together) + 'petere' (to seek).
Usage Notes
Commonly used in contexts involving sports, business, academics, and any scenario where individuals or groups are vying for superiority or a shared goal.
Word Breakdown
com-
together, with
prefix-pet-
to seek, strive
root-ite
verb-forming suffix
suffixEnglish Dictionary