Synonyms for

Rivals

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

Definition

Rivals are people or things that compete with each other.

Synonyms & similar words

match contender rival challenger touch competitor equal competition competitors opponents adversaries foes enemies antagonists challengers contenders combatants opposition races matches competitions contests battles fights struggles clashes

Synonyms by register

Formal

competitors opponents contenders adversaries

Informal

competish opponents foes nemeses

Literary

foes adversaries archrivals

Antonyms

allies partners collaborators friends confederates associates

Common collocations

  • fierce rivals
  • business rivals
  • political rivals
  • main rivals
  • close rivals
  • childhood rivals
  • arch rivals

Word family

noun rivalry
verb rival
adjective rivalrous

Usage note

The word 'rivals' often implies a direct competition or struggle for superiority. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts.

Example sentences

  1. The two cats are rivals for the attention of their owner.
  2. The two schools are rivals in the annual spelling bee competition.
  3. The two companies are rivals in the automobile industry.
  4. The two football teams are long-time rivals with a fierce rivalry.
  5. The two superheroes are rivals in the fight against crime.

Quotes

  • Good friends, good books, and a sleepy conscience: this is the ideal life. - Mark Twain
  • “One of the most beautiful qualities of true friendship is to understand and to be understood.” - Lucius Annaeus Seneca
  • “The only true wisdom is in knowing you know nothing.” - Socrates

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