What does “Rat race” mean?
"Rat race" means a competitive and stressful way of life in which people are constantly striving to achieve success and get ahead.
What context can I use the in?
Example
I'm tired of being caught up in the rat race, I just want to live a simple life.
Example
He's always chasing after promotions and more money, he's stuck in the rat race.
Example
After years of working in the corporate world, she decided to leave the rat race and start her own business
Is “Rat race” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Rat race” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “Rat race” effectively in context?
You can use "rat race" to describe a competitive and stressful way of life in which people are constantly striving to achieve success and get ahead. It emphasizes the feeling of being caught up in a never-ending cycle of work and competition. For example, if someone is tired of the pressures of their job and wants to live a simpler life, they might say, 'I'm tired of being caught up in the rat race, I just want to live a simple life.'
- 1Work
He's always chasing after promotions and more money, he's stuck in the rat race.
- 2Career Change
After years of working in the corporate world, she decided to leave the rat race and start her own business.
- 3Lifestyle
I'm tired of being caught up in the rat race, I just want to live a simple life.
Similar phrases to “Rat race”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Rat race” come from?
The origin of the phrase "rat race" is unknown.
Is “Rat race” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "rat race" is a common expression in everyday conversation. Many people can relate to the feeling of being trapped in a cycle of work and competition, and the phrase is often used to express a desire for a simpler and less stressful way of life.
What tone does “Rat race” have?
"Rat race" conveys a tone of frustration and dissatisfaction. It highlights the negative aspects of a competitive and stressful lifestyle and implies a longing for something different.
Can “Rat race” be used in informal and formal settings?
Rat race can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a widely recognized expression that describes a common experience. You can use it in conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, meetings, or professional writing.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'He's stuck in the rat race and constantly chasing after promotions.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'I'm tired of the rat race!' to express frustration with a stressful lifestyle.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- rat race
- hustle and bustle
- competitive world
- cutthroat environment
- dog-eat-dog world
- rat wheel
Antonyms
- relaxation
- contentment
- peaceful life
- slow pace
- work-life balance
