What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
contestant
Example
The contestant answered the question correctly and moved on to the next round. [contestant: noun]
Example
She has been a contestant on several cooking shows and has won multiple times. [contestant: noun]
competitor
Example
The competitors lined up at the starting line, ready to begin the race. [competitors: noun]
Example
Our company's biggest competitor just released a new product that we need to compete with. [competitor: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Competitor is more commonly used than contestant in everyday language, especially in the context of sports and business. Contestant is less common and is more often used in the context of game shows or reality TV programs.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between contestant and competitor?
Both contestant and competitor are relatively formal words and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, competitor may be slightly more formal due to its usage in business settings.
