Competing Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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competing

[kəmˈpiːtɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

in a contest

Engaging in a competition to achieve a goal or win a prize.

Synonyms

contending, rivaling, vying.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
competing

Used in situations where individuals or organizations are trying to achieve the same goal, often in a professional or competitive setting.

  • The two companies are competing for market dominance.
  • Athletes are competing in the national championship.
contending

Commonly used when someone is struggling or fighting for something, or against difficulties. It often implies a sense of effort or argument.

  • She is contending for the title of best speaker.
  • He is contending with many challenges in his new role.
rivaling

Used when comparing two entities that are closely matched or challenging each other in terms of quality, performance, or standing.

  • The new smartphone is rivaling the top brand in features.
  • Her paintings are rivaling those of famous artists.
vying

Often used when multiple parties are striving for a position, honor, or advantage in a competitive manner. It can have a slightly aggressive connotation due to the competition.

  • The students are vying for the scholarship.
  • Several candidates are vying for the same job.

Examples of usage

  • They are competing in the final round of the championship.
  • Several teams will be competing for the trophy.
  • The athletes have been training hard to compete at the highest level.
Context #2 | Verb

struggling against each other

Striving to gain or win something by defeating or establishing superiority over others.

Synonyms

battling, challenging.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
competing

There seems to be a duplicate entry for this word. Refer to the first entry.

battling

Often used to describe fighting against a tough situation, disease, or a difficult opponent, usually with a sense of struggle or hardship.

  • She is battling cancer with great courage.
  • The soldier was battling enemies on the front line.
challenging

Used when testing someone's abilities or questioning the validity of something. It implies a sense of testing or confrontation.

  • The coach is challenging the players to improve their skills.
  • She is challenging the company's decision in court.

Examples of usage

  • The two companies are competing for market share.
  • The siblings are always competing for their parents' attention.
  • Competing political parties often clash over policies.
Context #3 | Verb

vying for attention

Attempting to be more successful or better than someone else in an endeavor.

Synonyms

aspiring, endeavoring, striving.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
competing

Use this word when someone is actively taking part in a contest, race, or any competition. It often implies direct opposition.

  • She is competing in the national spelling bee
  • The two companies have been competing for market share for years
striving

Use this word when someone is making a great effort to achieve or obtain something, often dealing with obstacles or difficulties.

  • He is striving to finish the marathon despite the pain
  • They are striving to make a difference in their community
aspiring

Use this word when someone has strong hopes or ambitions toward achieving something, especially in a future career or a field of expertise.

  • He is an aspiring actor looking for his big break
  • Many aspiring writers join writing groups to improve their skills
endeavoring

Use this word to express an attempt or effort to do something, often something challenging, without the implication of opposition.

  • She is endeavoring to complete her PhD while working full-time
  • The scientists are endeavoring to find a cure for the disease

Examples of usage

  • The students are competing for the teacher's praise.
  • The artists are competing for recognition in the art world.
  • Competing actors audition for the lead role.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Competition can boost motivation and performance, pushing individuals to reach their potential.
  • However, excessive competition can lead to stress and anxiety, affecting people's mental health.
  • Different personalities respond to competition in unique ways; some thrive while others may feel overwhelmed.

Pop Culture

  • Reality television often highlights competition, such as talent shows, where individuals compete for fame and prizes.
  • Video games frequently incorporate competitive elements, allowing players to challenge each other globally.
  • Sports events like the Olympics showcase international competition, where athletes strive for greatness on a world stage.

Education

  • Competition in classrooms can motivate students to perform better, encouraging them to study harder.
  • Debate teams and science fairs are examples of educational settings where students compete to showcase their skills.
  • However, an overly competitive environment can discourage collaboration and creativity among students.

Sports

  • In team sports, competition fosters teamwork and camaraderie as players strive to achieve a common goal.
  • Historical games like the ancient Olympic Games celebrated competing in various physical disciplines.
  • Sportsmanship is an essential aspect of competition, teaching respect and fair play among athletes.

Origin of 'competing'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'competere', meaning 'to strive together' or 'to seek together'.
  • It has roots in the idea of working alongside others, aiming for the same goal.
  • The term began being used in English during the late 16th century, reflecting a growing interest in competition across various fields.

The word 'competing' originates from the Latin word 'competere', which means 'to strive together'. The concept of competition has been prevalent in human society for centuries, driving individuals and groups to improve themselves and achieve greater success. From ancient sporting events to modern business competitions, the act of competing has played a significant role in shaping human endeavors and pushing boundaries of achievement.


See also: compete, competence, competent, competition, competitively, competitiveness.

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,085 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.