competition

The word “competition” means a contest in which people or organizations try to win a prize or come out on top. In plain terms, a contest to win something, or the general rivalry between people or businesses trying to succeed.

“Competition” is pronounced kom-puh-TIHSH-uhn (/ˌkɑm.pəˈtɪʃ.ən/ in IPA).

Here is “competition” used in a sentence: “She entered the baking competition and won first prize.”

The opposite of “competition” — its antonyms — is cooperation.

“Competition” is a noun.

The word “competition” comes from Late Latin. From Late Latin competitio, from competere, "to strive together.".

“Competition” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.

Competition is the contest itself — the situation where people or firms strive to win or outdo one another. Competitiveness is a quality: the drive to compete, or how well placed someone is to succeed in that contest. You take part in a competition; you show competitiveness in the way you approach it.

Competition takes many forms: sporting contests, business rivalry for customers, academic prizes, talent shows, and elections, among others. Economists also grade markets from perfect competition, with many equal sellers, through to monopoly, where one dominates. What they share is two or more parties striving for an advantage others cannot all have.

It can be both. Healthy competition drives effort, innovation, and lower prices, pushing people and companies to improve. Taken too far, it can encourage stress, cutting corners, or unfair tactics. Most people see it as positive when the rules are fair and everyone has a genuine chance to win.

Two coffee shops on the same street lowering prices to attract customers is everyday competition. So is a football league, a spelling contest, or several firms bidding for the same contract. In each case, more than one party wants something only some of them can have, so they strive to come out on top.