A2noun1K

Competition

UK /["/ˌkɒmpəˈtɪʃn/"]/US /["/ˌkɑːmpəˈtɪʃn/"]/

Definition

an event in which people compete with each other to find out who is the best at something

In simple words: A contest where people or teams try to win something.

Examples

  • The competition between the two teams was very intense.
  • She won the first place in the painting competition.
  • The competition provided a great opportunity to showcase their skills.
  • Many schools participate in the annual science competition.
  • There is a lot of competition in the job market right now.

Usage notes

Use 'competition' in contexts like sports, events, or challenges. It's appropriate in both spoken and written English. Avoid in casual or slang settings without context.

Grammar pattern

competition + noun (e.g., competition winner)

Memory hint

Think of 'compete' with 'tion' at the end — it's about competing.

Collocations

  • international
  • national
  • major
  • win
  • lose
  • have
  • take place
  • be open to somebody
  • winner
  • entry
  • committee
  • in a/​the competition
  • competition between
  • competition for
  • cut-throat
  • fierce
  • intense
  • be up against
  • face
  • go into
  • exist
  • heat up
  • intensify
  • laws
  • against competition
  • in competition with
  • in the face of competition
  • outperform
  • blow away
  • crush

Synonyms

  • contest
  • tournament
  • dispute
  • rivalry
  • challenge

Antonyms

  • cooperation
  • collaboration

Common mistakes

  • Confusing 'competition' with 'competitor'
  • Using 'compete' incorrectly as a noun
  • Mixing up 'competition' and 'contest'