at a competitive level

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'at a competitive level' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when you are referring to the intensity or quality of something when compared to others. For example, "He has been playing tennis at a competitive level for the last two years."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

31 human-written examples

Will I stop working once I stop managing at a competitive level?

Independent

People of color are thriving at a competitive level instead of just bowing to the yoke of white supremacy, mediocrity and bigotry.

The Guardian - Opinion

"By keeping the surcharge at a competitive level, we are also recognising the contribution temporary migrants make to the wider economy," he said.

The Guardian

"To play the sport at a competitive level, you have to be willing to head the ball and do whatever it takes," she said.

The New York Times

The eventual goal is for participants to pursue the high-altitude sport on their own, perhaps even at a competitive level.

The New York Times

The medical treatment involved might cost less than $200, and in all probability the bowler would not lose the use of his hand, but he might never be able to bowl at a competitive level again.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

29 human-written examples

"If I pick up a sport, I have to get to at least a competitive level at it and be pretty good at it, or it's not any fun for me," Robinson said.

The New York Times - Sports

Currently a member of a national biathlon junior team, the patient was one of the best track and field athletes of his age group for mid-distance running disciplines (1500 m & 3000 m) on a competitive level at the time of initial diagnosis.

BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders

Less competitive, or at least at a different competitive level, these climbers are usually at Smith Rock to hike or explore.

Bplans

To enable a future engineer to work at a highly competitive level and become an internationally recognized specialist, they must possess advanced English speaking and writing skills.

Procedia - Social and Behavioral Sciences

Jan Bartu, performance director of Pentathlon GB, said: "To stay at a highly competitive level in a sport like modern pentathlon deserves respect, especially given the mental and physical demands of the sport".

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing skills or abilities, use "at a competitive level" to emphasize a high degree of proficiency and readiness for challenges. For instance, "She plays chess at a competitive level."

Common error

Don't use "at a competitive level" when describing activities that inherently lack competition or comparison. Instead of saying "He enjoys reading at a competitive level", opt for "He enjoys reading extensively" or "He is a passionate reader."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at a competitive level" typically functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to describe the manner in which an action is performed. It indicates the degree or intensity of skill or performance, suggesting it is comparable to others in a competitive setting. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

37%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Academia

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "at a competitive level" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that describes a high degree of proficiency and skill in an activity. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's a correct and usable phrase in written English. Primarily found in contexts such as News & Media and Science, it conveys competence and readiness for challenges. To avoid common errors, ensure that you're describing activities that are inherently competitive. Consider alternatives like "at a high standard" or "at a professional standard" depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at a high standard

Focuses on the quality of performance rather than the direct comparison inherent in competition.

at an elite level

Emphasizes the exclusivity and top-tier nature of the performance.

in a challenging environment

Highlights the difficulty of the situation rather than the level of skill.

at a professional standard

Specifies a level of competence expected in a professional setting.

at a cutting-edge standard

Highlights the innovation and advanced nature of activity.

at a superior level

Stresses the high quality of activity.

in a top-tier league

Specifies that something happens in a league consisting of the top players or teams.

on par with leading performers

Compares the subject to top performers, focusing on equality.

matching the best in the field

Focuses on the act of equalling the best, emphasizing effort.

competing with the best

Highlights the act of competition and direct engagement with leading figures.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "at a competitive level" in a sentence?

Use "at a competitive level" to indicate that someone performs an activity or possesses a skill with a high degree of proficiency, comparable to others in a competitive setting. For example: "Our engineers are trained to work "at a highly competitive level"."

What are some alternatives to saying "at a competitive level"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "at a high standard", "at an elite level", or "at a professional standard" to convey a similar meaning.

When is it inappropriate to use the phrase "at a competitive level"?

Avoid using "at a competitive level" when describing activities or skills that are not inherently competitive or where a comparison to others is irrelevant. In such cases, using descriptors like "proficient", "skilled", or "experienced" may be more suitable.

Is there a difference between "at a competitive level" and "at a professional level"?

While both phrases indicate a high degree of skill, "at a competitive level" emphasizes the ability to perform well in comparison to others, whereas "at a professional level" indicates competence that meets the standards of a specific profession. The phrase "at a superior level" focuses on the quality.