Rivalry: meaning, definitions and examples

This is best used when describing an ongoing struggle or competition between two or more parties that have a history or long-term contention. It often involves personal or organizational stakes.

• The long-standing rivalry between the two top football teams always draws a massive crowd
• There is a rivalry between those two companies for the best market position

Use this when referring to a situation where multiple parties are striving to achieve the same goal but not necessarily in a hostile manner. It often highlights the effort to outperform others.

• The competition for the best startup award was intense this year
• She enjoyed the healthy competition in her class

This word is best suited for situations involving a serious disagreement or argument that could lead to tension and potential hostility. It generally has a negative connotation.

• The conflict between the two nations escalated into a full-blown war
• There was a conflict of interest that led to their fallout

This is appropriate for situations where there is an organized event where individuals or groups compete against each other, often in a game or cultural event.

• The spelling bee contest took place in the school auditorium
• They won the baking contest with their delicious cake

Use this word when referring to a situation where there is a long-term and often intense competition between two or more entities. It is often used in the context of sports teams, businesses, or individuals who are persistently competing against each other.

• The rivalry between the two football teams has lasted for decades.
• There is a fierce rivalry in the smartphone market.

This word is more general and can be used in a wide range of contexts to refer to any situation where individuals or groups are trying to outperform each other. It can be used in business, sports, education, and other fields.

• The competition for the best science project was intense this year.
• There is stiff competition among the candidates for the job.

Use this word when referring to an organized event in which people compete to win. This word often implies a specific event with rules and a clear winner.

• The singing contest will be held this Friday.
• She won first place in the art contest.

Use 'rivalry' to describe a long-standing or ongoing competitive relationship between two parties, often with a sense of tradition or history.

• The intense rivalry between the two schools has existed for decades.
• Their sibling rivalry often leads to humorous family gatherings.

Use 'competition' to refer to a scenario where individuals or groups strive to achieve a goal that cannot be shared, typically in a structured environment.

• The science fair is a competition where students showcase their projects.
• There was tough competition for the job opening.

Use 'conflict' to describe a serious disagreement or argument, often involving prolonged struggle and marked by emotional tension. Conflict typically has a negative connotation.

• The conflict between the two countries has led to severe consequences.
• Their personalities often clash, resulting in frequent conflicts.

Use 'contention' to refer to points of argument or dispute in debates or formal discussions, focusing on intellectual disagreement rather than emotional struggle.

• The main points of contention in the debate were the economic policies.
• There is some contention over the interpretation of the data.