English Reference
Noun

competitiveness

n. uncountable
B2 Upper Intermediate US /kəmˈpɛtɪtɪvnɪs/ UK /kəmpˈɛtɪtˌɪvnəs/ com·pet·i·tive·ness

n.the desire to be more successful or better than other people. It can also mean how well a company or country can compete against others in business.

n.the quality of being as good as or better than others of a comparable nature; the possession of a strong desire to be more successful than others. Often refers to economic viability or individual psychological drive.


SIMPLE

Her competitiveness makes her a great athlete.

CONTEXTUAL

The government introduced new tax breaks to improve the international competitiveness of the local tech sector.

COMPLEX

While a healthy sense of competitiveness can drive innovation within a team, excessive rivalry often leads to a breakdown in communication and a toxic work environment.

Usage

Uncountable when referring to the general quality or economic state; rarely used in the plural.

It is expected to serve as an important milestone for strengthening national biomanufacturing competitiveness and fostering the global sustainable food industry.

Phys.org· 31 Aug 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated