Which one is correct?
"compete with" or "compete against"?

Question

Which one is correct?
"compete with" or "compete against"?

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This phrase is used when referring to someone or something you are trying to outdo or surpass in a general sense.

Examples:

She always competes with her brother to see who can run faster.
Our company competes with others in the industry for market share.

Alternatives:

rival with
strive with
vie with
contest with
battle with

This phrase is used when referring to a direct competition or challenge between two or more parties.

Examples:

The two teams will compete against each other in the final match.
I don't want to compete against my friends; I'd rather work together with them.

Alternatives:

face off against
challenge
compete with
compete in opposition to
compete in a contest with

Both 'compete with' and 'compete against' are commonly used phrases in English, but they are used in slightly different contexts. 'Compete with' is used when referring to someone or something you are trying to outdo or surpass in a general sense. On the other hand, 'compete against' is used when referring to a direct competition or challenge between two or more parties.

Last Updated: March 27, 2024