Competitive: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when someone is eager to win or be the best in a situation. It is often seen in sports, business, or any scenario involving a contest.

• John has a competitive nature and always strives to be number one in sales.
• The competitive environment in the office makes everyone work harder.

Refers to someone who has a strong desire to achieve particular goals or success in life, often long-term and broad in scope.

• Sarah is very ambitious and plans to become a CEO one day.
• His ambitious projects have earned him a lot of respect in the industry.

Typically describes someone who is highly motivated to achieve success or accomplish specific goals, often used to highlight overwhelming internal motivation.

• James is incredibly driven, working late hours to ensure his startup succeeds.
• Her driven attitude impresses everyone she meets.

Implies a strong and unwavering commitment to finishing a task or reaching a goal, often despite challenges or setbacks.

• Despite the obstacles, Maria remained determined to finish the marathon.
• He is determined to improve his grades this semester.

Describes a situation or relationship characterized by competition or rivalry, often used to highlight conflict or competition between individuals or groups.

• The rivalrous competition between the two companies has led to better products for consumers.
• Their rivalrous relationship pushes each to outperform the other.

Use this word when describing a scenario where participants are actively trying to outperform each other. It can apply to both sports and non-sports situations like business or academics.

• The job market has become extremely competitive
• Her competitive nature drives her to excel in all her endeavors

Sporting is most appropriate for contexts directly related to sports and athletic endeavors. It can also imply a more fair and respectful form of competition.

• The school organized a variety of sporting events for the students
• His sporting behavior was appreciated by all the players

Rivalrous is generally used to describe situations involving direct competition or rivalry, often implying a long-standing or ongoing nature. It has a somewhat formal tone.

• Their rivalrous relationship made every encounter a potential conflict
• The rivalrous teams prepared vigorously for the championship

This word is suited for situations that require effort, determination, and are not easily accomplished. It focuses more on the difficulty rather than the element of competition.

• The hiking trail was quite challenging but rewarding
• Solving this puzzle was challenging but fun

Fierce is used to describe intense and aggressive competition. It often carries a more dramatic or emotional tone and can sometimes imply hostility.

• The fierce competition between the two companies led to lower prices for consumers
• He faced fierce opposition during the debate