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

Related Phrases

compete on a level playing fieldphrase
to compete under fair conditions
compete with oneselfphrase
to strive to improve personal performance

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
suffix
English Dictionary