What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
contender
Example
The boxer was a strong contender for the championship title. [contender: noun]
Example
She is a contender for the position of CEO. [contender: noun]
Example
He is a serious contender for the gold medal in the upcoming Olympics. [contender: noun]
competitor
Example
The company's main competitor is a larger corporation. [competitor: noun]
Example
She is a fierce competitor and always strives to be the best. [competitor: noun]
Example
The athlete has several competitors who are also vying for the top spot. [competitors: plural noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Competitor is more commonly used than contender in everyday language, particularly in business and sports contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between contender and competitor?
Both contender and competitor can be used in formal and informal contexts, but contender may be considered slightly more formal due to its less common usage.
