Competitive Meaning: Definition and Examples

By Team ABJ

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Competitive refers to the ability of someone or something to compete effectively with others. It often involves being able to perform better, offer better products or services, or achieve success in a particular area when compared to others in the same field or market. Being competitive means having qualities or advantages that give you an edge over others in a competitive environment.

Meaning and definition of competitive

Here are various meanings and definitions of the word competitive:

1. Ability to Compete: “Competitive” means having the skill and strength to participate and do well in a contest or competition. It’s like being good at playing a game or doing a task better than others.

2. Trying to Win: In a broader sense, it means striving to win or achieve success. If you’re competitive, you’re putting in effort to be the best or to outperform others in a particular area.

3. Comparing and Excelling: Being competitive involves comparing your performance or qualities with others and trying to excel or be better than them. It’s like wanting to stand out in a positive way.

4. In Business: In the business world, being competitive means having an advantage over other companies. This could be through offering better products, lower prices, or providing excellent service to attract more customers.

5. Sporting Spirit: In sports, being competitive is about having a strong desire to win and giving your best effort. It’s the spirit that drives athletes to train hard and perform well in competitions.

6. Marketplace Success: In the marketplace, being competitive means having products or services that people prefer over others. It involves staying ahead in the market and meeting the needs of customers better than competitors.

7. Adaptability: Sometimes, being competitive also means being adaptable. It’s about adjusting to changes, learning new things, and staying relevant to stay ahead of the competition.

8. Positive Challenge: Being competitive doesn’t always mean being overly aggressive. It can also mean taking on challenges in a positive way, pushing yourself to improve without necessarily trying to harm others.

What are the other forms of competitive?

1. Compete (verb): To take part in a competition or rivalry.

  • Example: “She loves to compete in swimming competitions.”

2. Competition (noun): A situation where individuals or groups try to outdo each other.

  • Example: “The spelling bee was a tough competition, but he did his best.”

3. Competitor (noun): A person or thing that is competing with others.

  • Example: “Other smartphone companies are competitors to this brand.”

4. Competitiveness (noun): The quality of being able to compete effectively.

  • Example: “The company’s competitiveness comes from its innovative products.”

5. Competitive Advantage (noun): Something that gives a person or business an edge over others.

  • Example: “Their excellent customer service is a competitive advantage in the market.”

6. Noncompetitive (adjective): Not involving or characterized by competition.

  • Example: “It was a non-competitive game where everyone played just for fun.”

7. Uncompetitive (adjective): Not able to compete effectively, often due to a lack of competitiveness.

  • Example: “The high prices made the product uncompetitive in the market.”

9. Competitively (adverb): In a way that involves competition or striving for success.

  • Example: “She priced her artwork competitively to attract more buyers.”

How to pronounce competitive?

The word “competitive” is pronounced like this:

Com-pet-i-tive.

Here’s a breakdown of the pronunciation in simpler terms:

  • Com: rhymes with “mom.”
  • pet: rhymes with “get.”
  • i: sounds like the “i” in “sit.”
  • tive: rhymes with “hive.”

So, when you say them all together, it’s “com-PET-i-tive.”

Synonyms and antonyms of competitive

Synonyms:

  • Aggressive
  • Ambitious
  • Striving
  • Rivalrous
  • Zealous
  • Determined
  • Dynamic
  • Eager
  • Spirited
  • Fierce

Antonyms:

  • Uncompetitive
  • Noncompetitive
  • Cooperative
  • Collaborative
  • Unambitious
  • Apathetic
  • Laid-back
  • Indifferent
  • Passive
  • Relaxed

Examples of the word ‘competitive’ in sentences

In highly competitive environments, individuals may become more focused on their own success and less willing to work together. [Times of India]

Even our Indian education system is not that appreciable only regarding competitive exams. [Times of India]

During a highly competitive month-long series, India secured their inaugural Test victory against Australia at the Wankhede Stadium. [Times of India]

More examples:

The team was highly competitive, always pushing themselves to win every match.

In today’s business world, it’s crucial to be competitive to stand out in the market.

She secured a competitive internship at the top technology company in the city.

The pricing strategy was designed to be competitive, attracting customers with affordable yet high-quality products.

Even in friendly games, his competitive spirit shone through as he aimed for victory.

The company gained a competitive advantage by investing in cutting-edge technology.

The job market is competitive, and having additional skills can make a candidate stand out.

The airline industry is known for being highly competitive, with carriers vying for passengers with attractive deals.

The school’s sports program encourages healthy competition, fostering a competitive yet supportive environment.

Despite the competitive nature of the industry, the two companies found ways to collaborate on certain projects.