competitive streak

USAGE SUMMARY

‘competitive streak’ is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a person's proclivity to always strive to be ahead of others in any type of competition or challenge. For example, "His competitive streak made him an excellent athlete."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

His competitive streak is extreme.

The New York Times - Sports

A competitive streak also helps.

The New York Times

His competitive streak ran deep.

The New York Times

And that's his competitive streak coming out".

Independent

"I have a strong competitive streak".

The Guardian

Most people, after all, have a competitive streak.

The Economist

There is, however, a decidedly competitive streak to their relationship.

The Guardian - Music

That was before they experienced his competitive streak.

The New York Times

But he also found through sailing that tough, competitive streak.

The Guardian - Sport

THERE is nothing like saving the world to bring out the competitive streak in a politician.

The Economist

Still, given his extra-wide competitive streak, this is not just a token, ceremonial appearance.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone's "competitive streak", provide context. Mention specific instances where their competitiveness is evident to make your description more vivid.

Common error

While both terms relate to competition, "competitive streak" refers to an inherent trait, whereas "competitiveness" is a general characteristic or the state of being competitive. Ensure you use "competitive streak" when describing a person's ingrained tendency to compete.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "competitive streak" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject or object in a sentence. It describes a quality or characteristic of an individual. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and frequent usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

89%

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Science

1%

Reference

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "competitive streak" is a commonly used noun phrase that describes a person's inherent desire to win or outperform others. Ludwig AI affirms that it is grammatically correct and widely applicable. It appears most frequently in news and media contexts, with a neutral register suitable for various forms of communication. To enhance your writing, use this phrase to vividly illustrate a character's drive, and be mindful to differentiate it from the more general term "competitiveness". When looking for alternative phrasing, consider "will to win" or "drive to succeed" to convey similar meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

will to win

Highlights the determination and resolve to achieve victory.

fierce competitiveness

Stresses the intensity and aggressiveness of the competitive nature.

eagerness to compete

Focuses on the enthusiasm and willingness to engage in competition.

desire to win

Focuses on the inherent motivation to achieve victory.

drive to succeed

Highlights the ambition and determination to accomplish goals.

strong ambition

Highlights the ambition.

burning ambition

Emphasizes intense and passionate aspiration.

passion for victory

Emphasizes the emotional investment in achieving success.

rivalrous nature

Focuses on the inclination to engage in rivalry and competition.

aggressive spirit

Emphasizes the assertive and forceful approach to competition.

FAQs

How can I describe someone's "competitive streak"?

You can describe a "competitive streak" as a strong desire to win or outperform others. It often manifests as determination, ambition, and a focus on achieving goals. For example, "His competitive streak drove him to excel in every sport".

What's the difference between "competitive streak" and "will to win"?

"Competitive streak" describes an inherent personality trait, while "will to win" is a conscious and deliberate desire to achieve victory. The former is a natural inclination; the latter is a focused intention.

Which is a more formal phrase, "competitive streak" or "drive to succeed"?

Drive to succeed sounds slightly more formal and emphasizes ambition, while "competitive streak" focuses specifically on the desire to outperform others. The choice depends on the specific context.

How to identify the "competitive streak" of someone?

You can identify a "competitive streak" of someone looking at his behaviour in scenarios that require a challenging approach, or when the goal is to win over the others. People with a competitive streak usually act with "fierce competitiveness" and are focused to gain any advantage.