A2verb 2K

Compete

UK //kəmˈpiːt// US //kəmˈpiːt// Pronunciation

Definition

To strive against others to achieve a goal or win.

Listen to definition

In simple words: To try to win against others.

Examples

• Many schools compete in the annual science fair.
• They compete for a scholarship every year.
• Our team will compete against the best in the league.
• She wants to compete in the next marathon.
• Businesses often compete to attract customers.

Usage notes

Commonly used in sports and business contexts. Avoid using in very formal settings without context.

Listen to usage notes

Grammar pattern

compete + object

Memory hint

Think of a race where you all try to 'compete' for first place.

Collocations

• compete for attention
• compete in sports
• compete with rivals

Synonyms

• contend
• vie
• match

Antonyms

• cooperate
• assist

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'compete against' vs 'compete with'.
• Incorrect verb tense, e.g., saying 'competed' when 'competes' is needed.
• Omitting the object after 'compete'.