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Rivalling Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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rivalling

[หˆrษชvษ™lษชล‹ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

competition scenario

Rivalling refers to the act of competing with someone or something for supremacy or achievement. It involves striving to match or surpass another's efforts, often in a context of rivalry, where both parties seek recognition or success.

Synonyms

challenging, competing, contending, striving.

Examples of usage

  • The two athletes have been rivalling each other for years.
  • Their companies are rivalling in the tech market.
  • She is rivalling the top students for the scholarship.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • Rivalry often drives innovation; in business, companies compete to create better products or services.
  • Sports rivalries, like the one between FC Barcelona and Real Madrid, energize fans and create memorable moments in history.

Psychology

  • Studies show that rivalry can motivate individuals to improve their performance, as the desire to outperform peers can lead to increased effort.
  • However, excessive rivalry can lead to stress and anxiety, indicating a balance is crucial for healthy competition.

Literature

  • Rivalries are common themes in literature, such as in Shakespeare's 'Hamlet', where the prince's rivalry with his uncle drives the plot.
  • In modern novels, rival characters often serve to highlight the protagonist's journey and personal growth.

Pop Culture

  • In popular culture, rivalries are frequently depicted in movies, like the fierce competition between rival sports teams or musicians.
  • Reality TV shows often create drama through rivalries, drawing viewers in with the tension and competition.

Origin of 'rivalling'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'rivalis', which means 'one who uses the same river', originally referring to people who shared a water source.
  • In medieval times, 'rival' described competitors in the context of sports, games, or businesses, evolving to mean someone competing for the same goal.

The term 'rival' originated from the Latin word 'rivฤlis', which referred to 'one who shares a river' or 'one using the same stream'. This concept was grounded in the idea that two parties, be it individuals or groups, could be in competition for the same resources. In the Middle Ages, this term took on a broader meaning, applying to anyone in competition, especially in terms of power or prestige. Over time, 'rival' evolved to encompass both personal and professional contests, with 'rivalling' emerging as a verbal form, indicating the ongoing nature of competition. The use of 'rivalling' retains the essence of the word's roots, emphasizing the dynamic and sometimes contentious relationships that exist in competitive scenarios.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,017 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.