rival
nounCEFR B2
What does “rival” mean in English?
rival, competitor — a person or entity competing with another for the same objective
rival, competitor — a person or entity competing with another for the same objective (superar/batir al rival; rivales en el mercado)
Example sentences
Para mantenerse competitiva, la empresa debe conocer en profundidad las estrategias de sus principales rivales.
To remain competitive, the company must have an in-depth understanding of its main rivals' strategies.
El equipo venció a su rival histórico por tres goles a cero en una actuación memorable.
The team defeated its historical rival by three goals to zero in a memorable performance.
Su destreza técnica no tiene rival entre los pianistas de su generación.
His technical skill is unrivalled among pianists of his generation.
How to use it
El/la rival (noun, masculine/feminine) means 'rival, competitor' — someone in competition for the same objective. Core B2 collocations: superar/batir a un rival; rival directo; rivales en el mercado; sin rival (unrivalled). The adjective is rival and the verb is rivalizar (con). Distinguish from competidor (competitor — more commercial) and adversario (adversary — more antagonistic, political).
Common mistake
Rival is both masculine and feminine with no gender change (el/la rival). Rivalizar con = to rival/compete with. 'Arch-rival' = rival acérrimo. Don't confuse with enemigo (enemy — implies hostility, not just competition).