a worthy rival

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a worthy rival" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone or something that is deserving of respect and competition. Example: "In the world of chess, he has always considered her a worthy rival, pushing him to improve his game."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

31 human-written examples

A worthy rival for Real Madrid.

The New York Times

Derek Lowe was a worthy rival.

The New York Times - Sports

This episode is a worthy rival to season two's "Blackwater".

Independent

In it London already has a worthy rival for Eiffel.

The Guardian - Opinion

The New York Art iPhone app ($1) is a worthy rival.

The New York Times - Tech

But in Bing Microsoft may at last have created a worthy rival.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

29 human-written examples

It warms to the United States these days not as a friend but as a sole worthy rival, and it hates the current reality of American world leadership.

The Economist

He is a worthy competitor".

Forbes

The big British hope for home gold next summer knows she has a more than worthy rival now, as well as a winter's worth of motivational fuel to sustain her through the hard slog of training that lies ahead.

Independent

In the last decade Semmoto (along with Masayoshi Son, whom he dubs a "good and worthy rival") has been attacking Japan's slow, expensive Internet access market.

Forbes

Opalie, along with the top wine from Clos des Lunes — called Lune d'Or — and the dry white from Château Suduiraut, called S de Suduiraut, are all worthy rivals to the best wines of Pessac-Léognan, until now the top appellation in Bordeaux for dry whites.

The New York Times - Food

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a worthy rival" to convey not only competition, but also a level of respect and admiration for the opponent. This suggests that the competition is beneficial and elevates both parties.

Common error

Avoid using "a worthy rival" in contexts where the rivalry is purely negative or destructive. The phrase implies a degree of respect and positive challenge that might be inappropriate in such situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a worthy rival" functions as a noun phrase, where the adjective "worthy" modifies the noun "rival". According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Science

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a worthy rival" is a phrase used to describe a competitor deserving of respect and admiration. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct and very common, appearing frequently in News & Media contexts. Alternatives such as "a formidable opponent" or "a commendable competitor" can be used to emphasize different aspects of the rival. When using this phrase, ensure that the context aligns with its positive connotation, avoiding its application in purely negative rivalries. The phrase is a useful tool for acknowledging the benefits of competition and highlighting mutual respect.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a formidable adversary

Emphasizes the difficulty and challenge posed by the rival.

a commendable competitor

Highlights the admirable qualities of the competitor.

a deserving opponent

Stresses the fairness and legitimacy of the rivalry.

a challenging contender

Focuses on the difficulty in overcoming the rival.

a strong competitor

Highlights the rival's power and ability.

a tough adversary

Highlights the rival's resilience and ability to withstand pressure.

a notable challenger

Highlights the rival's recognition and prominence.

an equal match

Indicates a balanced and even competition.

a significant threat

Highlights the potential danger and impact of the rival.

a respected foe

Emphasizes the mutual admiration and honor in the rivalry.

FAQs

How can I use "a worthy rival" in a sentence?

You can use "a worthy rival" to describe a competitor who is respected and admired, such as: "The company considered its main competitor "a worthy rival", pushing them to innovate further".

What are some synonyms for "a worthy rival"?

Alternatives include "a formidable opponent", "a commendable competitor", or "a deserving opponent", each emphasizing different aspects of the competitor.

Is it always positive to describe someone as "a worthy rival"?

While generally positive, the appropriateness depends on context. If the rivalry is purely malicious, other terms might be better suited, as "a worthy rival" implies a level of respect and mutual benefit.

What distinguishes "a worthy rival" from just "a rival"?

The adjective "worthy" adds a layer of respect, admiration, and acknowledgement of the rival's skill or merit. It suggests the competition is not just present but also beneficial and elevating.