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Race Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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race

[reษชs ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

competition

A competition between people, animals, vehicles, etc. to see which one is the fastest and can finish first.

Synonyms

competition, contest, contest.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
race

This is a duplicate and has the same context as the first 'race'.
competition

Often used to describe a situation where people or teams compete against each other in various fields like sports, business, or arts.

  • The competition for the science fair was fierce.
  • There's a lot of competition in the job market right now.
contest

Usually refers to an event in which people try to win by doing something better than others, such as singing, writing, or cooking.

  • She won first place in the poetry contest.
  • The baking contest had some very delicious entries.

Examples of usage

  • The annual marathon is a popular race in our city.
  • She won the swimming race by a large margin.
Context #2 | Noun

ethnicity

A group of people identified as distinct from other groups because of supposed physical or genetic traits shared by the group.

Synonyms

descent, ethnicity, lineage.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
race

Used to describe large groups of people who share similar inherited physical characteristics. Often used in a sociopolitical context.

  • The concept of race has been a topic of heated debate.
  • The census asks people to identify their race.
ethnicity

Describes a group of people who share a common cultural background, language, or heritage. Often used in discussions about cultural identity.

  • Her ethnicity is African-American.
  • The festival celebrates the diversity of various ethnicities in the community.
descent

Refers to someone's ancestral origin or lineage. Often used when discussing heritage or genealogy.

  • She is of Italian descent.
  • His descent from a royal family gives him a unique background.
lineage

Specifically refers to direct descent from an ancestor, particularly in historical or genealogical studies. Often used in a formal context.

  • He traced his lineage back to ancient Scottish kings.
  • The book explores the aristocratic lineage of European families.

Examples of usage

  • The country is home to people of different races.
  • He is proud of his mixed-race heritage.
Context #3 | Verb

compete

To take part in a race or competition.

Synonyms

compete, contest, vying.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
race

Used when two or more participants try to finish a course or reach a goal as quickly as possible.

  • They decided to race to see who was the fastest swimmer.
  • The car race was thrilling, with drivers pushing their limits.
compete

Used in a broader context when individuals or teams strive to achieve a particular goal, often in a variety of challenges or fields.

  • Athletes from around the world compete in the Olympics.
  • Several companies are competing for the lucrative contract.
contest

Commonly used for organized events where participants vie for a prize or recognition, and it may involve voting, judging, or scoring.

  • She won first place in the baking contest.
  • The singing contest attracted many talented performers.
vying

Often used to describe an intense or close competition where participants are striving very hard to outdo each other, usually for a significant reward or recognition.

  • The siblings were vying for their parents' attention.
  • Several top candidates are vying for the prestigious award.

Examples of usage

  • They will race against each other in the final round.
  • The athletes raced for the finish line.

Translations

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

Origin of 'race'

The word 'race' has a complex history with origins in Old Norse, Old French, and Middle English. It has evolved over time to encompass various meanings related to competition, genetics, and social categorization. The concept of race has been a significant and controversial topic throughout history, influencing social structures and policies.

See also: biracial, outrace, racehorse, racer, racers, racial, racialism, racialist, racing, racism, racist, racy.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #1,381, this word is part of core intermediate vocabulary. It appears regularly in various contexts and is essential for natural-sounding English.