What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
rivalry
Example
The rivalry between the two soccer teams was intense. [rivalry: noun]
Example
The two brothers had a rivalry that started in childhood and continued into adulthood. [rivalry: noun]
contest
Example
She won first place in the singing contest. [contest: noun]
Example
He is going to contest the election results. [contest: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Contest is more commonly used than rivalry in everyday language. Contest is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while rivalry is less common and refers to a more specific type of competition.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between rivalry and contest?
Contest is typically associated with a more formal tone, while rivalry can be used in both formal and informal contexts, depending on the situation.
