What does rival mean?
A rival is someone or something that competes with another for the same goal, position, or distinction. The word can describe a close opponent, such as a business rival or a rival for a major sporting title. It can also function as a verb: to rival something means to compete with it or to equal it in quality, ability, or achievement. When used before a noun, rival means comparable to another: a rival product offers an alternative to an established brand, while a rival tradition shares features with another cultural or artistic style. The term often suggests continuing competition, but it does not necessarily imply hostility. In general use, rival has a neutral to slightly competitive tone, although some contexts carry the suggestion of a personal opponent. It is useful because it captures both opposition and close comparability, making it appropriate for personal, commercial, sporting, and cultural relationships.
A person, organization, or thing that competes with another for the same goal, position, or achievement.
"The two companies are fierce rivals in the mobile phone market."
Often implies a sustained or close relationship of competition, but does not necessarily mean personal hostility.
To compete with, equal, or closely approach another in ability, quality, or achievement.
"This young singer could soon rival some of the country's most established performers."
Common in contexts involving competition, performance, quality, and achievement.
Comparable to another in status, quality, ability, or value.
"The shop stocks rival brands so customers can compare prices."
Usually appears before a noun and is particularly common in commercial and competitive contexts.
The standard plural is 'rivals.'
"The two rivals met again in the final tournament."
The word rival comes from Latin for someone who shares the same stream, a fitting origin for people competing for the same resources.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does rival come from?
The English word comes through Old French from Latin rivalis, an adjective meaning 'of or belonging to a rival.' Latin rivalis is generally connected with rivus, 'stream,' and may originally have referred to people sharing water on opposite sides of the same stream. English acquired the word in the late medieval period and developed its modern meanings of competitor and equal or comparable person or thing. English derivatives such as rivalry and rivalrous continue to reflect the same Latin root.
Related word forms
How rival is actually used
In its noun sense, rival usually implies sustained competition or a close comparison. As an adjective, it is commonly used in business, sports, and cultural contexts. In British English, the verb is often written 'rivalled' and 'rivalling'; American English commonly uses 'rivaled' and 'rivaling.'
Easily confused with rival
A rival is the person or group that competes with another, whereas a rivalry is the competition or relationship between rivals.
A rival generally competes in the same field and may be comparable in status or ability, while an adversary is primarily an opponent and may also be hostile.