competition

/ˌkɒmpɪˈtɪʃən/
nounIntermediate💡 a contest or rivalry between individuals or groups
general

A situation in which people or groups try to be more successful than others in a particular area, such as business or sports.

The competition among students to get into top universities is intense.

Students are strongly competing to be accepted into prestigious universities.

💡

Competition can be healthy, driving innovation and improvement, but it can also lead to stress and conflict.

general

A formal event or contest in which people or teams compete against each other in a specific activity or skill.

She won first place in the national singing competition.

She achieved the highest rank in a national singing contest.

💡

Competitions often have rules, judges, and prizes for winners.

Collocations

fierce competitionintense rivalryhealthy competitionbeneficial rivalry that encourages improvementunfair competitionrivalry that involves dishonest or illegal practices

Related Phrases

competitive advantagephrase
a factor that allows a business to outperform its rivals
cutthroat competitionphrase
extremely aggressive and ruthless rivalry

💡Pro Tip

Context Matters

The word 'competition' can be used in both positive and negative contexts. Be mindful of the tone when using it.

Gold Rule

Avoid Overuse

While competition is important, overemphasizing it can create unnecessary stress and conflict.

📖Word Origin

From Latin 'competitionem', meaning 'a striving together', from 'competere' (to strive together).

📝Usage Notes

Competition can be used in both positive and negative contexts. It can refer to friendly contests or aggressive business rivalries.

Word Breakdown

compet
to strive or seek together
root
+
-ition
the action or process of
suffix
English Dictionary