competition
n. any performance situation structured in such a way that success depends on performing better than others. Interpersonal competition involves individuals striving to outperform each other; intergroup competition involves groups competing against other groups, with such groups including both small, face-to-face gatherings and very large groups, such as nations; intragroup competition involves individuals within a group trying to best each other. Because competing individuals sometimes increase their chances of success by actively undermining others’ performances, such goal structures can lead to conflict. Compare cooperation. —compete
vb.
—competitive
adj.