Rivals Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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rivals
[หraษชvษlz ]
Definitions
sports
A person or thing competing with another for the same objective or for superiority in the same field of activity.
Synonyms
adversary, competitor, opponent.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| rivals |
Use 'rivals' to describe two entities that are in a long-standing competition, often with a sense of mutual recognition and possibly mutual respect. This word is often used in sports, business, and other competitive fields.
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| competitor |
Use 'competitor' in business or sports contexts to refer to someone who is in the same field and aims to achieve similar goals. This word is neutral and doesn't carry the emotional or historical connotations that 'rival' might.
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| opponent |
Use 'opponent' to describe someone you are directly opposing in a contest, debate, or conflict. This term is common in sports, politics, and other formal debates, and it doesnโt necessarily imply a long-term rivalry.
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| adversary |
Use 'adversary' in a more formal or serious context to refer to someone you are competing against or in conflict with. This term is often employed in legal, military, or strategic scenarios, and it can carry a stronger or more negative connotation.
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Examples of usage
- He has many rivals in the tennis world.
- The two teams are fierce rivals on the basketball court.
business
A company offering similar products or services in the same market as another.
Synonyms
competitor, competitor, opponent.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| rivals |
Used to describe people or groups who are competing against each other in the same area, often implying a long-term or strong competition.
|
| competitor |
Commonly used in business and sports to describe someone who is in competition with others, typically focusing on the competitive aspect rather than personal conflict.
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| opponent |
Typically used in sporting or political contexts, referring to someone who is contesting against another, often with a sense of direct confrontation.
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Examples of usage
- Coca-Cola and Pepsi are long-standing rivals in the beverage industry.
- The two tech giants are constantly battling as rivals in the smartphone market.
general
To be competing with someone in the same field or for the same objective.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| rivals |
Refers to people or entities that are in direct competition, often with a sense of ongoing opposition. Typically implies a more formal or long-term contest.
|
| compete |
Used to describe the act of participating in a contest or competition. It can apply to a wide range of activities, from sports to business.
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| contend |
Implies a struggle or effort to achieve something in the face of difficulty or opposition. Often used in more formal or serious contexts.
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| vie |
Indicates a spirited competition, often among a number of participants, and typically implies enthusiasm or eagerness.
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Examples of usage
- Our company is currently rivaling with the biggest player in the industry.
- She is rivaling against her best friend for the lead role in the school play.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Sports
- In sports, rivalries can ignite intense passion among fans and players, a notable example being the rivalry between the New York Yankees and the Boston Red Sox.
- Rivalries often lead to historic games that define careers and forge legends in the sporting world.
Psychology
- Research shows that healthy competition with rivals can motivate individuals to perform better, pushing them to achieve their personal best.
- The feelings of rivalry can activate the brainโs reward centers, making winning against a rival feel especially triumphant.
Pop Culture
- Famous rivalries have shaped narratives in movies and literature, such as the antagonistic relationship between Sherlock Holmes and Professor Moriarty.
- In the world of technology, companies like Apple and Samsung have a well-documented rivalry that influences innovation and marketing strategies.
History
- Throughout history, rival nations have often gone to war to assert dominance and control over resources, influencing global power dynamics.
- Rivalries in politics, such as those seen during the Cold War, have shaped international relations and alliances.
Origin of 'rivals'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'rival' comes from the Latin word 'rivalis,' which means 'one who uses the same stream,' referring to people competing for the same resources.
- In medieval times, rivals were often those who vied for power or land, establishing the sense of competition we use today.
The word 'rivals' originated from the Latin word 'rivalis', which means 'one who uses the same stream as another'. In ancient Rome, a 'rivalis' referred to someone living on the opposite side of the river, sharing the same water source. Over time, the term evolved to denote competitors or adversaries in various fields, such as sports, business, and life in general.
See also: rival, rivaling, rivalrous, rivalrously, rivalry, unrivaled.