What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
challenger
Example
The young athlete is a formidable challenger in the upcoming race. [challenger: noun]
Example
She challenged him to a game of chess to test his skills. [challenged: past tense verb]
competitor
Example
The company's main competitor just released a new product. [competitor: noun]
Example
He is a fierce competitor and always gives his best in every match. [competitor: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Competitor is more commonly used than challenger in everyday language. Competitor is a widely recognized term that can be applied to various competitive situations, while challenger is less common and often used in specific contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between challenger and competitor?
Both challenger and competitor can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, challenger may have a slightly more assertive or confrontational tone, which could make it more suitable for informal or competitive settings.