Synonyms for

Competition

Verb / ˌkɑ:mpʌˈtɪʃʌn / Another word for competition — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

The activity of competing, especially against others.

Synonyms & similar words

contender rival challenger contest rivalry competitor cooperation contention contest tournament match game race trial bout clash duel conflict struggle championship showdown rivalry fight face-off contestant opponent challenger adversary

Synonyms by register

Formal

contest rivalry enterprise endeavor

Informal

race showdown clash battle

Literary

joust strife emulation

Antonyms

cooperation collaboration harmony teamwork unity accord

Common collocations

  • fierce competition
  • intense competition
  • healthy competition
  • cutthroat competition
  • market competition
  • economic competition
  • friendly competition
  • academic competition

Word family

noun competition
verb compete
adjective competitive
adverb competitively

Usage note

Competition can refer to a contest or the act of trying to win something. It often implies rivalry, but can also be used in a positive sense for healthy striving.

Example sentences

  1. The gymnastics competition was fierce.
  2. We are going to have a spelling competition in class.
  3. I love watching cooking competitions on TV.
  4. The dog show was a competition to see who had the best dog.
  5. The race was a friendly competition between friends.

Quotes

  • Competition is not only the basis of protection to the consumer, but is the incentive to progress. - Herbert Hoover
  • Competition is the law of the jungle, but cooperation is the law of civilization. - Peter Kropotkin
  • The urge to compete, the drive to take charge, is an instinct that goes back millions of years. - Margaret Thatcher

Try these popular words

the and that for you with was this are have not from

Practice

Play the Word Synonyms game · Choose level (start near 1)

Worksheets

Grade 4 · Grade 5 · Grade 6

Topics

Guides

Explore more words