in rivalry

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in rivalry" is correct and usable in written English.
It is usually used to refer to competing with someone for something in a contested manner. For example: "The two teams faced off in rivalry for the championship title."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Tensions rooted in rivalry were also disruptive.

Harvard Business Review

Dissimilar monocular AIs engaged in rivalry, as expected, but, surprisingly, the AI induced by the suppressed grating initially dominated.

Current Biology

Colleagues competing for the boss's attention — or merit raises and bonuses — are siblings in rivalry.

The New York Times

Group succeeds group like one hand of cards after another, forever being rearranged, and sometimes in rivalry.

The New York Times - Arts

The increase in rivalry suggests that the 747 will become less of a money-spinner for Boeing.

Harvard Business Review

Because the truth is, Messi and Ronaldo do not operate in rivalry but in symbiosis, their stark contradictions in style accentuating the idiosyncrasies of each.

Independent

The two participants in next week's A.C.C. championship game were outscored 79-36 in rivalry games against in-state foes from the SEC.

The New York Times

The two were interlocked in rivalry and mutual dependence, and the Belgian Congo was described as the "portfolio state" for its reliance on copper shares.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The issues were fought out in rivalry for the mind of the Prophet, the authority of which was the sole agreement in the very disputing of it.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Two or three males may dance in rivalry, performing difficult leaps, kicks, and other acrobatic stunts to demonstrate vigour and virility.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Barbara Haskell, the Whitney's curator of early-20th-century art, said there was a built-in rivalry with MoMA.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in rivalry" when you want to emphasize the competitive and often antagonistic nature of a relationship between two or more entities. It suggests an active struggle for dominance or success.

Common error

Avoid using "in rivalry" when a simple "in competition" or "competing" would suffice. "In rivalry" carries a stronger connotation of antagonism, which may not always be appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in rivalry" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs or clauses to describe the manner in which an action is performed or a state exists. It specifies that the action or state occurs within a context of competition and antagonism. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Encyclopedias

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Academia

10%

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

15%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in rivalry" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe a competitive relationship, often marked by antagonism. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. While similar to "in competition", "in rivalry" carries a stronger connotation of active struggle and potential hostility. It appears frequently in news, encyclopedias, and scientific publications, suggesting a broad applicability across diverse contexts. When using this phrase, it's important to consider the specific nuances you wish to convey, ensuring that the implied antagonism aligns with the intended meaning. Be mindful of overuse in contexts where a milder term like "in competition" would suffice. Alternatives such as "in contention", "in conflict", and "at odds" offer varying degrees of intensity and may be more appropriate depending on the specific situation. The phrase can be used to describe any entity from persons to countries.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in competition

This alternative is more general and emphasizes the act of competing without necessarily implying hostility.

in contention

This alternative suggests a dispute or struggle over something.

in conflict

This alternative highlights a clash or disagreement, potentially more severe than simple competition.

in opposition

This alternative emphasizes a direct contrast or resistance.

at odds

This alternative implies disagreement or disharmony.

locked in conflict

This alternative is more forceful, suggesting an intense and ongoing dispute.

engaged in a feud

This alternative implies a long-standing and bitter antagonism.

pitted against each other

This alternative emphasizes the adversarial nature of the relationship.

vying for supremacy

This alternative highlights the desire to be the best or most powerful.

contending for position

This alternative is more formal and suggests a struggle for status or rank.

FAQs

How is "in rivalry" different from "in competition"?

"In rivalry" implies a more intense and often hostile form of competition than "in competition". Rivalry often involves a personal or emotional element.

What are some alternatives to using "in rivalry"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "in contention", "in conflict", or "at odds" to express similar meanings without necessarily implying hostility.

Is it always negative to be "in rivalry"?

While "in rivalry" often carries a negative connotation due to the implied antagonism, it can also be used to describe a situation where competition drives innovation and excellence. It depends on the specific context.

How can I use "in rivalry" in a sentence?

You can use "in rivalry" to describe entities or individuals competing for something, such as "The two companies were "in rivalry" for market share", or "The siblings grew up "in rivalry" with each other".