Compete/kəmˈpiːt/ Definition 1 of 3Pro Tip 1/3Business Context Used when companies or individuals strive to outdo each other in the market. Tech companies constantly compete to release the best smartphones. Pro Tip 2/3Direct Rivalry Implies a head-to-head challenge where one's success is compared to another's. The two athletes will compete against each other for the gold medal. Pro Tip 3/3Achievement Aspiration Suggests a strong desire to succeed or reach a certain level, often better than others. She competes to surpass her personal best in every marathon.