a competition between runners, horses, vehicles, etc. to see which is the fastest in covering a set course, a group of people sharing the same culture, history, language, etc.; an ethnic group, a classification of humans into groups based on physical traits, ancestry, genetics, or social relations

put on a good race, in the race for something, win the race

rat race, mixed race, race against time

Formal and Informal Expressions of race

In different contexts, you can replace 'race' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'competition, contest' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'showdown, face-off' is a commonplace synonym.

race: Explore its Definition & Usage

race Definition

1a competition between runners, horses, vehicles, etc. to see which is the fastest in covering a set course
2a group of people sharing the same culture, history, language, etc.; an ethnic group
3a classification of humans into groups based on physical traits, ancestry, genetics, or social relations

Using race: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "race" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
The Boston Marathon is one of the most famous races in the world.
Example
The horse race was held at the local racetrack.
Example
The Olympic Games feature races in various categories.
Example
The car race ended in a photo finish.

race Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for race

Antonyms for race

Idioms Using race

put on a good race
to perform well in a competition
Example
The team put on a good race and won the championship.
in the race for something
competing with others to achieve or obtain something
Example
The company is in the race for the top spot in the industry.
win the race
to be the first to finish a competition
Example
He trained hard to win the race and set a new record.

Phrases with race

rat race
a competitive struggle for wealth or power that is often ruthless and stressful
Example
I got tired of the rat race and decided to quit my job.
mixed race
a person whose parents or ancestors are from different racial backgrounds
Example
She is proud of her mixed race heritage.
race against time
to try to do something very quickly because there is very little time
Example
We're in a race against time to finish this project before the deadline.

Origins of race

from Old Norse 'ras', meaning 'a running, race'

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Summary: race in Brief

The term 'race' [reɪs] refers to a competition between individuals or groups to determine the fastest or best performer, such as a footrace or car race. It can also refer to a group of people who share the same cultural or ethnic background, or a classification of humans based on physical traits or ancestry. Phrases like 'rat race' and 'race against time' describe competitive struggles, while idioms like 'put on a good race' and 'win the race' denote success in competition.