Match: meaning, definitions and examples

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match

 

[ mætʃ ]

Noun / Verb
Oxford 3000
Context #1 | Noun

sports

A competition or game in which people, teams, etc. compete against each other.

Synonyms

competition, contest, game.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
match

Used when referring to a formal or organized game between two teams or individuals, such as in sports or competitions.

  • The football match between Spain and Italy was very exciting.
  • She watched the tennis match on TV last night.
competition

Used when referring to an event where multiple participants or teams compete against each other to win a prize or recognition.

  • She won first place in the singing competition.
  • The company hosted a coding competition for college students.
contest

Usually used to describe competitive events that are judged based on certain criteria, such as talent shows or essay contests.

  • He entered a baking contest and won.
  • The school held a science contest for students.
game

A general term for any structured form of play, especially those with rules and objectives; can be used informally for both physical and digital activities.

  • We played a board game with the family last night.
  • She enjoys video games in her free time.

Examples of usage

  • She won the tennis match.
  • It was a close match between the two teams.
Context #2 | Verb

relationships

To be harmonious or compatible with someone or something.

Synonyms

agree, correspond, fit.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
match

Use 'match' when referring to a competition or game between two people or teams.

  • The tennis match was exciting
  • They have a big match against their rivals tomorrow
correspond

Use 'correspond' when referring to things that have a direct relationship or connection, often used in more formal contexts.

  • Her story corresponds with the evidence
  • The results correspond to our expectations
fit

Use 'fit' to describe something that is the right size or shape, or appropriate for a particular situation.

  • These shoes fit perfectly
  • The key doesn't fit the lock
agree

Use 'agree' to indicate having the same opinion or reaching a mutual decision on something.

  • I agree with your point of view
  • They agreed to meet at noon

Examples of usage

  • Their personalities match perfectly.
  • The colors of the painting match the furniture in the room.

Translations

Translations of the word "match" in other languages:

🇵🇹 partida

🇮🇳 मैच

🇩🇪 Spiel

🇮🇩 pertandingan

🇺🇦 матч

🇵🇱 mecz

🇯🇵 試合 (しあい)

🇫🇷 match

🇪🇸 partido

🇹🇷 maç

🇰🇷 경기

🇸🇦 مباراة

🇨🇿 zápas

🇸🇰 zápas

🇨🇳 比赛 (bǐsài)

🇸🇮 tekma

🇮🇸 leikur

🇰🇿 матч

🇬🇪 მატჩი

🇦🇿 matç

🇲🇽 partido

Etymology

The word 'match' originated from Old English 'mæcca', which means 'mate, companion'. It evolved to the current meaning of 'a competition' or 'to be compatible with'. The word has been used in various contexts and languages over the years, reflecting its versatility and importance in communication.

See also: matched, matching, matchless, matchstick, mismatched, outmatch, outmatchable, outmatched, unmatched.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,132, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.