Word
rat race
Uncountable noun
Definition
n. the busy and stressful way of life in modern society where people compete for money and power. You use this to describe a job or lifestyle that feels exhausting and never-ending.
n. a frantic and competitive way of life, especially within a corporate or professional environment, in which people compete for wealth or status. Usually implies a sense of futility or lack of personal fulfilment.
Examples
“He left the rat race to open a small farm.”
“After twenty years in corporate law, she finally decided to quit the rat race and spend more time with her family.”
“The urban rat race often forces individuals to prioritise career advancement over mental health, leading to widespread burnout in high-pressure industries.”
Examples
simple
“He left the rat race to open a small farm.”
contextual
“After twenty years in corporate law, she finally decided to quit the rat race and spend more time with her family.”
complex
“The urban rat race often forces individuals to prioritise career advancement over mental health, leading to widespread burnout in high-pressure industries.”
Usage
Commonly used with the verbs 'quit', 'escape', or 'join'; typically takes 'the' as a singular collective concept.
Related words
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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