face stiff competition

USAGE SUMMARY

"face stiff competition" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when referring to someone or something having to confront a difficult challenge. For example: "The small business had to face stiff competition from larger companies in order to succeed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

And restaurateurs face stiff competition.

The New York Times - Food

TargetSpot may face stiff competition.

The New York Times

Joule Biotechnologies will also face stiff competition.

MIT Technology Review

Optic Gaming will now face stiff competition.

The Guardian - Tech

He would, of course, face stiff competition.

The New York Times - Books

This time, though, he will face stiff competition.

The New Yorker

Chelsea face stiff competition from Real Madrid for his signature.

Independent

And the high-end Fort Lauderdale hotels face stiff competition.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

Conservatives in his inner circle have opposed accession, in part because industries may face stiffer competition.

The New York Times

In addition, the Accord will face stiffer competition than in the past from other midsize sedans.

The New York Times

Pakistani businesses will likely face stiffer competition, especially in auto parts, pharmaceuticals and consumer goods.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "face stiff competition", specify the field or area where the competition is occurring to provide context and clarity. For example, "The new startup will face stiff competition in the software industry."

Common error

Don't use "face stiff competition" without providing any context. Saying "They face stiff competition" is less effective than specifying who "they" are and where the competition exists.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "face stiff competition" functions as a verbal phrase, where "face" is the verb and "stiff competition" is the object. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is both correct and usable in written English. It indicates that someone or something must confront a difficult challenge.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

77%

Formal & Business

12%

Science

11%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "face stiff competition" is a commonly used phrase that accurately describes situations involving significant challenges and strong rivals. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and widely applicable. It functions as a verbal phrase, typically with a neutral register, suitable for both formal and informal contexts. The analysis of usage patterns indicates its prevalence in news, business, and scientific domains. When employing the phrase, it's essential to provide specific context to enhance clarity and avoid vague statements. Alternatives such as "encounter fierce rivalry" and "compete against formidable contenders" offer similar meanings with nuanced emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

encounter fierce rivalry

Replaces "competition" with "rivalry" and "stiff" with "fierce", highlighting the intensity of the opposition.

contend with strong opposition

Substitutes "face" with "contend with" and "stiff competition" with "strong opposition", emphasizing the act of dealing with resistance.

compete against formidable contenders

Rephrases the idea of facing competition as competing against strong and capable rivals.

be up against tough adversaries

Emphasizes the opposing entities and their challenging nature.

grapple with intense challenges

Changes the focus to "challenges" instead of "competition", conveying a broader sense of difficulty.

navigate a highly competitive landscape

Shifts the focus to the environment in which the competition takes place.

battle significant headwinds

Uses a metaphorical expression indicating strong opposing forces.

vie in a crowded market

Highlights the act of competing in an oversaturated environment.

tackle demanding market conditions

Focuses on the state of the market and the difficulties it presents.

withstand considerable pressure

Shifts the focus to the pressure exerted by the competition.

FAQs

What does "face stiff competition" mean?

To "face stiff competition" means to encounter significant challenges and strong rivals in a particular field or market. It implies that success will require considerable effort and strategic maneuvering.

What can I say instead of "face stiff competition"?

You can use alternatives like "encounter fierce rivalry", "compete against formidable contenders", or "navigate a highly competitive landscape" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "face stiff competition" or "face a stiff competition"?

"Face stiff competition" is the correct and more common phrasing. The indefinite article "a" is not typically used before "competition" in this context.

Is "face stiff competition" formal or informal?

"Face stiff competition" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. It's a common expression used in news articles, business reports, and everyday conversations.