this is a competition

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "this is a competition" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that a situation or event involves competing against others for a prize or recognition. Example: "In this contest, remember that this is a competition, and only the best will win."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

This is a competition.

The New York Times - Magazine

Fortunately, this is a competition where the host appears to have the advantage.

The Economist

"This is a competition for pre-eminence and influence in Asia," Mr. Turnell said.

The New York Times

On the show I tell my girls: this is a competition.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Not that I'm a woman or that this is a competition, but I'm 6ft 7in.

The Guardian - Music

This is a competition problem," said a lawyer for DuPont, Donald L. Flexner.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

This was a competition.

The New York Times - Sports

This was a competition that followed a group of 10 exceptional men and women as they were put through a series of tough human performance tests.

The Guardian

This being a competition sponsored by a tire manufacturer, the brief also asked entrants to produce detailed drawings of lightweight tire and wheel assemblies.

The New York Times

"They started assessing us out in Year 9, when we were 13," says Ball. "And it kicked in that this was a competition.

The Guardian

Some claimed that this was a competition that Jenner had "won," and that in honoring Jenner, ESPN was somehow dishonoring other, more deserving, recipients.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "this is a competition", ensure the context clearly defines what is being competed for and who the participants are. Be specific to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "this is a competition" when the situation involves collaboration or cooperation more than direct rivalry. Choose a more appropriate phrase that reflects the true dynamic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this is a competition" primarily functions as a statement of fact or declaration. Ludwig AI indicates its correctness and usability. It asserts that a given situation or event involves competitive elements, which is confirmed by the examples provided.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

3%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "this is a competition" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression to denote a competitive scenario. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, and examples are sourced from reputable outlets like The New York Times and The Guardian. It serves to frame situations as competitive, setting expectations for participants. While suitable for neutral register, context determines formality. Alternative phrases include "this is a contest" or "this is a rivalry". When using the phrase, ensure clarity about the competitive elements and participants involved.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

this is a contest

Replaces "competition" with "contest", a direct synonym emphasizing the element of winning.

this is a rivalry

Substitutes "competition" with "rivalry", highlighting the ongoing antagonism between participants.

this is a race

Uses "race" instead of "competition", implying a sense of urgency and a clear finish line.

this is a struggle

Replaces "competition" with "struggle", focusing on the difficulty and effort involved.

this is a game

Uses "game" instead of "competition", suggesting a playful or strategic aspect.

this is an arena

Replaces "competition" with "arena", emphasizing the public and performative nature of the contest.

this is a battle

Substitutes "competition" with "battle", highlighting the confrontational aspect.

this is a trial

Uses "trial" instead of "competition", focusing on the test of abilities and resilience.

this is a challenge

Replaces "competition" with "challenge", suggesting an opportunity for growth and improvement.

this is a quest

Substitutes "competition" with "quest", framing the situation as a pursuit of a goal.

FAQs

What does "this is a competition" mean?

The phrase "this is a competition" means that a particular situation or activity involves people or groups trying to win something, such as a prize, a title, or recognition, by being better than others.

How can I use "this is a competition" in a sentence?

You can use "this is a competition" to emphasize the competitive nature of an event or situation. For example, "Although we're friends, "this is a competition", and I want to win."

What can I say instead of "this is a competition"?

You can use alternatives like "this is a contest", "this is a rivalry", or "this is a race" depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "this was a competition"?

Yes, "this was a competition" is grammatically correct. It simply refers to a competition that occurred in the past.