Synonyms for

Matchup

Verb / ˈmætʃʌp / Another word for matchup — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

a pairing or competition between two individuals or teams

Synonyms & similar words

matchup contest game competition duel showdown face-off confrontation clash encounter battle rivalry bout struggle meet event tournament match championship playoff series

Synonyms by register

Formal

contest competition confrontation encounter

Informal

showdown face-off bout clash

Literary

joust trial of strength

Antonyms

disagreement mismatch incompatibility discord conflict opposition

Common collocations

  • a tough matchup
  • a close matchup
  • a favorable matchup
  • a difficult matchup
  • the championship matchup
  • a potential matchup
  • a key matchup

Word family

noun matchup
verb match up

Usage note

Primarily used in sports and competitive contexts to describe a contest between two individuals or teams. Can also be used more broadly for any comparison or pairing of things.

Example sentences

  1. The basketball matchup between the Lakers and the Celtics was on TV last night.
  2. The chess matchup between two grandmasters was a draw.
  3. The spelling bee matchup was intense as the final two contestants battled it out.
  4. The tennis matchup between Serena Williams and Maria Sharapova was a blowout victory for Williams.
  5. The presidential debate matchup between the two candidates was highly anticipated.

Quotes

  • "I'm always excited for a good matchup." - Odell Beckham Jr.
  • "I think that's what attracts people to matchups, is the intrigue of the unknown." - Peyton Manning
  • "Each wrestling matchup is like a blank canvas." - Jordan Burroughs

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