What does concours mean?
Concours is a formal English noun for a competition, especially one in which contestants demonstrate technical skill before judges. It is particularly associated with piano and other musical contests, and it can also refer to equestrian competitions in which horses and riders are evaluated. Unlike the broad word competition, concours often suggests an organized event with formal rounds, prestigious participants, or international standing. In ordinary conversation, the more familiar competition or contest is usually easier; concours adds a specialist, ceremonious, and often international flavor. The word is useful because it names a specific type of judged event rather than every contest. It also carries a French heritage: English borrowed the term directly from French, where it has long been used for musical and artistic competitions. A reader encountering concours on a concert program, application form, or equestrian listing will understand that a highly structured, skill-based competition is intended.
nounA competition, especially one involving musical performance, horsemanship, or another judged exhibition of skill.
- A competition, especially a musical or equestrian competition, in which participants are judged for skill or excellence.
"The pianist won the international concours in Vienna."
"The young violinist won the international concours and received a prize from the jury."
"The annual equestrian concours brought some of the country's finest horses and riders together."
The plural is the same as the singular form. The surrounding sentence usually makes the number clear.
"Several concours were held across the country during the festival."
Concours is a competition with a French accent: the word still signals a formal, high-level contest, especially in music or horsemanship.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does concours come from?
The English noun comes from French concours, a word used for a competition or contest, especially in music and the arts. French borrowed it from Latin concursus, “a running together, an assembly, a competition,” formed from concurrere, “to run together,” which contains currere, “to run.” Related English words include concur, concurrent, concourse, and recur, all reflecting the same Latin root.
How concours is actually used
Concours is more specialized and ceremonious than competition or contest. It is common in music and equestrian contexts and is also used for prestigious international events.
Easily confused with concours
A concours is a competition, whereas a concourse is a large public area, such as a station concourse or an open passage in a building.