competitive
/kəmˈpɛtɪtɪv
/adjective
1Relating to or characterized by competition: a competitive sport the intensely competitive newspaper industry...
- That gives us, as New Zealanders, a clear, competitive advantage in most industries.
- Keeping on top of global developments in a particular field can afford serious competitive advantage.
- It is a much cheaper way of gaining competitive advantage and it is a continuing process.
Synonyms
ruthless, merciless, aggressive, fierce
informal dog-eat-dog, cut-throat
1.1Having or displaying a strong desire to be more successful than others: she had a competitive streak...
- Bayern Munich may have been knocked out of Europe, but their competitive spirit is as strong as ever.
- Even their displays of competitive compassion only emphasise how illusory the choice is.
- This was an excellent game of football, displayed by two very competitive sides.
Synonyms
ambitious, driven, vying, combative, contentious, aggressive;
insistent, driving, pushing, zealous, keen
informal pushy, go-ahead
2As good as or better than others of a comparable nature: a car industry competitive with any in the world...
- Many US firms could now find it is easier to export because their goods and services are considerably more competitive.
- Air access and egress is considered a fundamental for any region which hopes to be competitive in the future.
- Those projects as well as excellence in education will make the country competitive.
2.1(Of prices) low enough to compare well with those of rival traders: we offer prompt service at competitive rates...
- They would then decide whether the prices were competitive enough to make it a sustainable business.
- Three competitive proposals are usually enough to establish a competitive price for money.
- A low exchange rate, competitive prices, and a whole lot of migration do not make them magicians.
Synonyms
reasonable, moderate, economical, keen;
low, inexpensive, cheap, cheap and cheerful, budget, economy, bargain, sale, cut-rate, cut, reduced, marked down, discounted, discount, rock-bottom
informal bargain-basement
British informal bargainous
Origin
Early 19th century: from Latin competit- 'striven for', from the verb competere (see compete), + -ive.