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A1 noun 8 min read

Competição

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips Competição in 30 Seconds
Explanation Competição in your Level:
At the A1 CEFR level, learners are introduced to basic vocabulary. 'Competição' at this level is understood as a simple contest or a game where people try to win. The focus is on recognizing the word and its most common, concrete uses, such as in sports or simple games. For example, a child might understand 'competição' as the act of playing a game against friends to see who wins. Sentences will be very simple and direct, often involving familiar activities. The core concept is about winning or losing in a straightforward situation.
At the A2 CEFR level, learners can understand sentences and frequently used expressions related to areas of most immediate relevance (e.g., very basic personal and family information, shopping, local geography, employment). 'Competição' is understood in a slightly broader sense, including more organized events like school sports days or local talent shows. Learners can start to use the word in simple sentences to describe these events. They might begin to differentiate between a general competition and a specific contest. The focus remains on practical, everyday situations.
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At the B1 CEFR level, learners can understand the main points of clear standard input on familiar matters regularly encountered in work, school, leisure, etc. They can deal with most situations likely to arise whilst travelling in an area where the language is spoken. 'Competição' at this level extends to understanding its use in more formal contexts, such as news reports about sporting events or academic challenges. Learners can describe their own experiences with competitions and express opinions about them. They might start to understand the concept of 'fair play' within a competition. The word is used in more complex sentence structures.
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At the B2 CEFR level, learners can understand the main ideas of complex text on both concrete and abstract topics, including technical discussions in their field of specialization. They can interact with a degree of fluency and spontaneity that makes regular interaction with native speakers quite possible. 'Competição' is understood in its full scope, including its use in business, politics, and social commentary. Learners can discuss the strategies involved in competitions, the economic impact of major competitions, and the psychological aspects of competing. They can also analyze the different types of competitions and their outcomes.
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At the C1 CEFR level, learners can understand a wide range of demanding, longer texts, and recognize implicit meaning. They can express themselves fluently and spontaneously without much obvious searching for expressions. 'Competição' is understood with all its idiomatic and nuanced meanings. Learners can engage in sophisticated discussions about the role of competition in society, its ethical implications, and its impact on innovation and human behavior. They can differentiate subtle shades of meaning between 'competição' and similar words like 'concurso' or 'disputa' and use them appropriately.
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At the C2 CEFR level, learners can understand with ease virtually everything heard or read. They can summarize information from different spoken and written sources, reconstructing arguments and accounts in a coherent presentation. 'Competição' is fully mastered. Learners can use the word with native-like precision in any context, including highly specialized or literary ones. They can deconstruct complex arguments about competition, analyze its historical evolution, and use it in creative writing or persuasive discourse. They possess a complete understanding of its cultural and social connotations.
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Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

Competição in 30 Seconds

  • Competição means competition or contest.
  • Used for sports, games, and rivalry.
  • It's a feminine noun: a competição.
  • Focuses on striving to win.

The Portuguese word “Competição” (pronounced kom-peh-tee-SAHNG) is a noun that directly translates to “competition” in English. It refers to a situation where people or groups try to win something by being more successful than others. This can be in a formal contest for a prize or honor, or in a more general sense of rivalry. You’ll hear this word used in many different contexts, from sports and academic challenges to business and even everyday life when people are striving for something.

Sports
Think of football matches, swimming races, or track and field events. These are all forms of competição.
Academics
Spelling bees, science fairs, or university entrance exams can also be described as a competição.
Business
Companies competing for market share or for the best employees is a business competição.
Everyday Life
Even in casual settings, like a game night or a friendly debate, there's an element of competição.

A organização da competição de natação foi excelente.

The organization of the swimming competition was excellent.

The core idea is always about striving against others to achieve a goal, whether it's a trophy, a better position, or simply the satisfaction of winning. Understanding this word opens up a lot of communication in Portuguese, as rivalry and striving are universal human experiences.

Using “Competição” in a sentence is straightforward once you grasp its meaning. It functions as a noun and can be the subject, object, or complement in a sentence. The context will usually make it clear whether it's a formal event or a more general sense of rivalry. Pay attention to the articles (o, a, os, as) and prepositions that often accompany it.

As a Subject
Here, competição is the one performing the action or being described. For example, “A competição foi muito acirrada.” (The competition was very fierce.)
As an Object
It is the receiver of the action. For instance, “Eles adoram participar de qualquer competição.” (They love to participate in any competition.)
With Prepositions
It frequently appears with prepositions like “de” (of) to specify the type of competition, or “em” (in) to indicate where it takes place. Example: “A competição de culinária atraiu muitos chefs.” (The cooking competition attracted many chefs.) “Houve uma grande competição em xadrez.” (There was a great competition in chess.)

A próxima competição será no próximo mês.

The next competition will be next month.

Os alunos estão animados para a competição de robótica.

The students are excited for the robotics competition.

Mastering these sentence structures will allow you to use competição naturally and effectively in your Portuguese conversations and writing.

You’ll encounter “Competição” in a wide array of real-life situations in Portuguese-speaking countries. It’s a word that’s deeply embedded in the culture, reflecting the value placed on achievement and rivalry. From the boisterous cheers at a football stadium to the quiet tension of a chess match, competição is present.

Sports Broadcasts
Commentators frequently use competição when discussing games, tournaments, and athletes’ performances. “A competição de futebol este ano está muito emocionante.” (This year’s football competition is very exciting.)
Educational Settings
Teachers and students will talk about academic competitions, such as spelling bees or math challenges. “Os alunos foram incentivados a participar da competição de ciências.” (Students were encouraged to participate in the science competition.)
News and Media
News reports often cover national and international competitions, from athletics to arts. “A competição internacional de dança terá participantes de vinte países.” (The international dance competition will have participants from twenty countries.)
Business Discussions
In the business world, it’s used to describe market rivalry. “A competição no setor de tecnologia é intensa.” (The competition in the technology sector is intense.)
Casual Conversations
Friends might discuss a friendly video game competition or even a cooking contest at a party. “Quem vai ganhar a nossa competição de cartas hoje?” (Who will win our card competition today?)

O atleta se preparou intensamente para a competição olímpica.

The athlete prepared intensely for the Olympic competition.

Listening to Portuguese media and engaging in conversations will quickly expose you to the various ways competição is used, making it a familiar and useful word in your vocabulary.

While “Competição” is a relatively straightforward word, learners might make a few common mistakes, often related to its grammatical gender or its direct translation from English. Being aware of these pitfalls can help you use the word more accurately.

Confusing Gender
The most frequent error is using the wrong article or adjective agreement because competição is a feminine noun. Forgetting to use “a” instead of “o” before it, or using masculine adjectives, is common. For example, saying “o competição” instead of “a competição,” or “o evento competição” instead of “o evento da competição.”
Overuse of “Contest”
While “contest” is a synonym in English, sometimes learners might try to find a direct Portuguese equivalent that doesn't fit as well in all contexts. Competição is the most versatile and widely used term for both formal contests and general rivalry.
Misplacing the Accent
The accent on the “i” in competição is crucial for pronunciation and correct spelling. Forgetting it or placing it incorrectly can lead to mispronunciation and spelling errors.
Confusing with Similar Words
While less common at A1, learners might confuse it with words related to “competition” in a broader sense, like “rivalry” or “struggle,” which have different nuances. Competição specifically refers to the act of competing or the event itself.

Mistake: Eu ganhei o competição de xadrez.

Incorrect: I won the chess competition.

Correct: Eu ganhei a competição de xadrez.

Correct: I won the chess competition.

By paying attention to gender agreement and the specific meaning of competição, you can avoid these common errors and communicate more effectively.

While “Competição” is the most common and versatile word for competition, Portuguese offers other words that might be used in specific contexts or carry slightly different nuances. Understanding these alternatives can enrich your vocabulary and allow for more precise expression.

Concurso
Competição vs. Concurso: Concurso often refers to a contest, especially one where participants are judged on merit for a prize, like a beauty pageant, a talent show, or a written exam for a public service position. While it’s a type of competition, it’s more specific. Competição is broader and can apply to any contest, including sports. Example: “Ela ganhou o concurso de miss.” (She won the beauty queen contest.) vs. “A competição de natação foi emocionante.” (The swimming competition was exciting.)
Rivalidade
Competição vs. Rivalidade: Rivalidade means “rivalry” and focuses on the state of being rivals, the ongoing tension or competition between two or more parties. Competição is the act or event of competing. You can have a rivalidade that leads to many competições. Example: “Existe uma grande rivalidade entre os dois clubes de futebol.” (There is a great rivalry between the two football clubs.) This rivalry manifests in their matches, which are competições.
Disputa
Competição vs. Disputa: Disputa means “dispute” or “argument,” but it can also refer to a contest or a struggle for something. It often implies a more contentious or contested situation than competição. It can be used for a race or a fight for a position. Example: “A disputa pelo título foi intensa.” (The dispute/contest for the title was intense.) In many cases, competição is more appropriate for organized contests.
Torneio
Competição vs. Torneio: Torneio refers to a “tournament,” which is a series of competitions or matches, often in sports, leading to a single winner. A tournament is a specific type of event that hosts multiple competitions. Example: “O torneio de tênis atraiu jogadores de todo o mundo.” (The tennis tournament attracted players from all over the world.) This tournament consists of many individual competições.

A competição de culinária é um tipo de concurso.

The cooking competition is a type of contest.

By understanding the nuances between competição and these related terms, you can express yourself with greater precision and a deeper understanding of the Portuguese language.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

"A análise da dinâmica competitiva no setor revela uma tendência de consolidação."

Neutral

"A competição de xadrez vai começar em breve."

Informal

"Essa competiçãozinha aí não me assusta."

Child friendly

"Quem vai ser o campeão da nossa competição de jogos?"

Fun Fact

The Latin root 'petere' also gives us English words like 'petition' and 'compete', highlighting the shared historical linguistic journey. The idea of 'seeking together' implies a structured interaction where multiple parties are after the same thing.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /kɔ̃.pɛ.t͡ʃiˈsɐ̃w/
US /kɔ̃.pɛ.t͡ʃiˈsɐ̃w/
The stress falls on the penultimate syllable: com-pe-ti-**ção**.
Rhymes With
ação canção emoção informação opinião solução visão situação
Common Errors
  • Pronouncing the 'ão' as a simple 'ao' without nasalization.
  • Incorrectly stressing a different syllable.
  • Not nasalizing the initial 'o'.
  • Pronouncing the 'ç' as a hard 'k' sound instead of 's'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

At A1/A2, reading 'competição' is straightforward in simple sentences. As sentences become more complex with abstract contexts (B1+), understanding requires more nuanced vocabulary and grammatical structures.

Writing 2/5

Using 'competição' correctly in simple sentences is easy. Advanced usage, especially with correct gender agreement and in abstract or formal contexts, requires B1+ proficiency.

Speaking 2/5

Pronouncing and using 'competição' in basic conversations is achievable early on. Nuanced discussions about different types of competition or its socio-economic impact require higher proficiency.

Listening 2/5

Recognizing 'competição' in spoken Portuguese is relatively easy in common contexts. Understanding it in fast-paced news reports or academic lectures might pose a challenge initially.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

ganhar perder prémio jogar desporto concurso

Learn Next

competitivo competir competidor torneio concurso racionalidade

Advanced

meritocracia oligopólio monopólio concorrência estratégia game theory

Grammar to Know

Gender agreement with nouns ending in -ção.

A competição (feminine noun) é interessante. O prémio (masculine noun) é grande.

Use of definite articles (o, a, os, as) with nouns.

Eu ganhei a competição. As competições foram emocionantes.

Preposition 'de' to specify the type of competition.

A competição de natação foi um sucesso.

Adjectives agreeing in gender and number with the noun.

Uma competição difícil. Competições emocionantes.

Past tense verbs used to describe past competitions.

Ele participou na competição no ano passado.

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Examples by Level

1

Eu gosto desta competição.

I like this competition.

Simple present tense, basic noun usage.

2

É uma competição para crianças.

It is a competition for children.

Using 'é' (is) and the preposition 'para' (for).

3

A competição tem um prémio.

The competition has a prize.

Singular feminine noun 'competição' with definite article 'a'.

4

Queremos ganhar a competição.

We want to win the competition.

Verb 'querer' (to want) followed by infinitive 'ganhar' (to win).

5

A competição é divertida.

The competition is fun.

Using the adjective 'divertida' (fun) with the feminine noun.

6

Há uma competição de corrida.

There is a running competition.

Using 'há' (there is/are) and specifying the type of competition.

7

Eu não gosto de competição.

I don't like competition.

Negation with 'não' and the preposition 'de' (of/about).

8

A competição é agora.

The competition is now.

Indicating time with 'agora' (now).

1

Esta competição de futebol é muito popular.

This football competition is very popular.

Using demonstrative adjective 'esta' and adverb 'muito'.

2

Participei numa competição de natação no ano passado.

I participated in a swimming competition last year.

Past tense verb 'participei' and indefinite article 'numa' (in a).

3

A competição de matemática foi difícil.

The math competition was difficult.

Past tense of 'ser' (to be) - 'foi', and adjective 'difícil' (difficult).

4

Os organizadores prepararam uma grande competição.

The organizers prepared a big competition.

Plural noun 'organizadores' and adjective 'grande' (big).

5

Gostaria de assistir à competição de dança.

I would like to watch the dance competition.

Conditional verb 'gostaria' (would like) and preposition 'a' + article 'a' = 'à'.

6

A competição de robótica é para estudantes universitários.

The robotics competition is for university students.

Specifying the target audience with 'para'.

7

Houve muita emoção na competição de voleibol.

There was a lot of excitement in the volleyball competition.

Using 'houve' (there was) and 'muita emoção' (a lot of excitement).

8

Precisamos de mais competições como esta.

We need more competitions like this one.

Plural form 'competições' and comparative phrase 'como esta'.

1

A competição internacional de xadrez atraiu jogadores de vários países.

The international chess competition attracted players from several countries.

Using past tense 'atraiu' and specifying origin with 'de vários países'.

2

Os prémios da competição artística foram entregues ontem.

The prizes for the art competition were awarded yesterday.

Past passive voice 'foram entregues' and specifying the type of competition.

3

A empresa está a investir numa nova competição de mercado.

The company is investing in a new market competition.

Using gerund form 'a investir' and specifying the domain 'de mercado'.

4

Para ter sucesso nesta competição, é preciso dedicação.

To succeed in this competition, dedication is necessary.

Infinitive phrase 'Para ter sucesso' and impersonal expression 'é preciso'.

5

A competição de talentos revelou vários artistas promissores.

The talent competition revealed several promising artists.

Past tense 'revelou' and adjective 'promissores' (promising).

6

Os resultados da competição de debate serão anunciados na próxima semana.

The results of the debate competition will be announced next week.

Future passive voice 'serão anunciados' and specifying the type of competition.

7

A competição literária incentiva a criatividade dos jovens escritores.

The literary competition encourages the creativity of young writers.

Present tense verb 'incentiva' and specifying the audience 'dos jovens escritores'.

8

O desportista sentiu a pressão da competição.

The athlete felt the pressure of the competition.

Using noun 'pressão' (pressure) and possessive 'da'.

1

A globalização intensificou a competição entre as empresas multinacionais.

Globalization has intensified the competition among multinational companies.

Using past participle 'intensificou' and specifying the scope 'entre as empresas multinacionais'.

2

Avaliar o impacto de uma competição desportiva requer uma análise multifacetada.

Evaluating the impact of a sports competition requires a multifaceted analysis.

Using gerund 'Avaliar' as subject and abstract noun 'análise multifacetada'.

3

A competição por recursos naturais tem sido uma causa histórica de conflitos.

Competition for natural resources has been a historical cause of conflicts.

Using 'por' to indicate the object of competition and abstract noun 'conflitos'.

4

É crucial fomentar um espírito de competição saudável, em vez de uma rivalidade destrutiva.

It is crucial to foster a spirit of healthy competition, rather than destructive rivalry.

Using infinitive 'fomentar' and contrasting 'competição saudável' with 'rivalidade destrutiva'.

5

A tecnologia blockchain promete revolucionar a forma como as competições são geridas e auditadas.

Blockchain technology promises to revolutionize how competitions are managed and audited.

Using future infinitive 'revolucionar' and passive gerund 'geridas e auditadas'.

6

A estratégia de marketing da empresa visa ganhar a competição no mercado emergente.

The company's marketing strategy aims to win the competition in the emerging market.

Using infinitive 'ganhar' after 'visa' and specifying the market 'emergente'.

7

Os regulamentos da competição foram atualizados para garantir a equidade entre os participantes.

The competition regulations were updated to ensure fairness among participants.

Past passive 'foram atualizados' and noun 'equidade' (fairness).

8

A competição académica exige não apenas conhecimento, mas também capacidade de resolução de problemas.

Academic competition requires not only knowledge but also problem-solving ability.

Using correlative conjunction 'não apenas... mas também' and abstract noun 'capacidade'.

1

A intrínseca natureza da competição humana, quando canalizada de forma construtiva, pode impulsionar o progresso civilizacional.

The intrinsic nature of human competition, when channeled constructively, can drive civilizational progress.

Complex sentence structure, abstract nouns like 'intrínseca natureza', 'progresso civilizacional', and sophisticated verb 'impulsionar'.

2

A desregulamentação económica, embora prometa maior eficiência, pode exacerbar a competição predatória entre as corporações.

Economic deregulation, while promising greater efficiency, can exacerbate predatory competition among corporations.

Using subordinate clauses ('embora prometa'), abstract concepts ('desregulamentação económica'), and nuanced verbs ('exacerbar').

3

A análise comparativa das políticas de incentivo à competição revela disparidades significativas entre os modelos de desenvolvimento.

The comparative analysis of policies to encourage competition reveals significant disparities between development models.

Sophisticated vocabulary ('análise comparativa', 'políticas de incentivo', 'disparidades significativas') and complex noun phrases.

4

A meta-análise de estudos sobre a influência da competição no desempenho cognitivo sugere uma relação curvilínea.

A meta-analysis of studies on the influence of competition on cognitive performance suggests a curvilinear relationship.

Highly specialized vocabulary ('meta-análise', 'desempenho cognitivo', 'relação curvilínea') and formal academic tone.

5

A omnipresença da competição na sociedade contemporânea levanta questões éticas sobre a meritocracia e a justiça social.

The omnipresence of competition in contemporary society raises ethical questions about meritocracy and social justice.

Advanced vocabulary ('omnipresença', 'contemporânea', 'meritocracia') and abstract philosophical concepts.

6

A resiliência psicológica é um fator determinante para o sucesso em competições de alta pressão.

Psychological resilience is a determining factor for success in high-pressure competitions.

Abstract nouns ('resiliência psicológica', 'fator determinante') and idiomatic phrasing ('alta pressão').

7

A competição desleal, caracterizada por práticas anticompetitivas, exige uma intervenção regulatória robusta.

Unfair competition, characterized by anti-competitive practices, requires robust regulatory intervention.

Specific terminology ('competição desleal', 'práticas anticompetitivas', 'intervenção regulatória robusta').

8

A narrativa da competição como motor de progresso, embora sedutora, ignora frequentemente os custos sociais e ambientais.

The narrative of competition as a driver of progress, while seductive, often ignores the social and environmental costs.

Critical analysis of a concept ('narrativa da competição') and nuanced phrasing ('embora sedutora', 'ignora frequentemente').

1

A dialética da competição, intrinsecamente ligada à evolução darwiniana, manifesta-se em esferas tão díspares quanto a biologia molecular e a geopolítica.

The dialectic of competition, intrinsically linked to Darwinian evolution, manifests itself in spheres as disparate as molecular biology and geopolitics.

Highly abstract and philosophical language ('dialética', 'intrinsicamente ligada', 'esferas díspares'), demonstrating mastery of complex theoretical concepts.

2

A desconstrução do paradigma da competição como único motor de inovação revela a importância de modelos colaborativos e simbióticos.

The deconstruction of the paradigm of competition as the sole driver of innovation reveals the importance of collaborative and symbiotic models.

Post-structuralist and critical theory vocabulary ('desconstrução', 'paradigma', 'simbióticos'), showing deep analytical capability.

3

A hermenêutica da competição no discurso pós-moderno questiona as narrativas hegemónicas de sucesso e fracasso.

The hermeneutics of competition in postmodern discourse questions hegemonic narratives of success and failure.

Advanced philosophical and literary terms ('hermenêutica', 'discurso pós-moderno', 'narrativas hegemónicas'), demonstrating sophisticated interpretation.

4

A ontologia da competição, enquanto fenómeno existencial, molda a subjetividade e a intersubjetividade humana de formas subtis e profundas.

The ontology of competition, as an existential phenomenon, shapes human subjectivity and intersubjectivity in subtle and profound ways.

Metaphysical and existential vocabulary ('ontologia', 'existencial', 'subjetividade', 'intersubjetividade'), indicating a complete grasp of abstract concepts.

5

A fenomenologia da competição desportiva investiga a experiência vivida do atleta face ao limite e à superação.

The phenomenology of sports competition investigates the lived experience of the athlete facing limits and overcoming them.

Specific philosophical approach ('fenomenologia') applied to a concrete domain, focusing on subjective experience ('experiência vivida').

6

A crítica à exacerbação da competição em detrimento da cooperação tem implicações significativas para a coesão social e o bem-estar coletivo.

The critique of the exacerbation of competition at the expense of cooperation has significant implications for social cohesion and collective well-being.

Complex socio-political analysis ('exacerbação', 'em detrimento de', 'coesão social', 'bem-estar coletivo').

7

A arquitetura da competição, tanto em termos de regras formais quanto de normas informais, é um campo fértil para a investigação em teoria dos jogos.

The architecture of competition, in terms of both formal rules and informal norms, is a fertile ground for research in game theory.

Interdisciplinary application ('arquitetura da competição', 'teoria dos jogos') and precise terminology.

8

A pulsão competitiva, enquanto força motriz subjacente a inúmeras interações humanas, exige uma compreensão psicanalítica aprofundada.

The competitive drive, as an underlying driving force in countless human interactions, requires a deep psychoanalytic understanding.

Psychoanalytic concepts ('pulsão competitiva', 'força motriz subjacente', 'compreensão psicanalítica') applied to the core idea of competition.

Common Collocations

competição desportiva
competição académica
competição internacional
competição acirrada
competição justa
competição de negócios
competição de ideias
competição de talentos
competição saudável
participar numa competição

Common Phrases

Entrar em competição

— To enter into a competition; to start competing.

Muitos atletas entraram em competição pela medalha de ouro.

Ganhar a competição

— To win the competition.

O objetivo de todos era ganhar a competição.

Perder a competição

— To lose the competition.

Mesmo a perder a competição, ele aprendeu muito.

Estar em competição

— To be in competition; to be competing.

A equipa está em competição pelo título nacional.

Organizar uma competição

— To organize a competition.

O clube vai organizar uma competição de xadrez.

A competição é intensa

— The competition is intense.

No mercado atual, a competição é intensa.

Uma competição para todos

— A competition for everyone.

Queremos que esta competição seja uma oportunidade para todos.

A primeira competição

— The first competition.

Esta é a sua primeira competição oficial.

A competição de culinária

— The cooking competition.

A competição de culinária atraiu muitos chefs amadores.

A competição de ideias

— The competition of ideas.

Numa democracia, a competição de ideias é essencial.

Often Confused With

Competição vs Concurso

'Concurso' often implies a selection process with judges or specific criteria, like a beauty contest or a job exam. 'Competição' is broader and can include sports or any general rivalry.

Competição vs Torneio

'Torneio' refers specifically to a tournament, which is a series of matches or competitions. A tournament hosts multiple 'competições'.

Competição vs Disputa

'Disputa' can imply a more contentious argument or struggle, whereas 'competição' is more often used for organized contests or general striving.

Idioms & Expressions

"Competição de titãs"

— A competition between giants; a contest between two very powerful or famous entities.

A final entre os dois grandes clubes foi uma verdadeira competição de titãs.

Figurative/Neutral
"Um contra todos"

— One against all; a competition where one participant faces all others.

O candidato independente sentiu que estava a jogar um contra todos.

Figurative/Informal
"Lutar como num ringue"

— To fight like in a boxing ring; to compete fiercely and intensely.

As duas empresas lutaram como num ringue para fechar o contrato.

Figurative/Informal
"Dar o seu melhor na competição"

— To give one's best in the competition.

Independentemente do resultado, todos deram o seu melhor na competição.

Neutral
"Competição leal"

— Fair competition; playing by the rules.

É fundamental que exista sempre competição leal.

Neutral/Ethical
"A competição é o tempero da vida"

— Competition is the spice of life; it makes life more interesting and exciting.

Alguns dizem que a competição é o tempero da vida, pois nos motiva a melhorar.

Proverbial/Figurative
"Competição sem tréguas"

— Competition without truce; relentless competition.

A luta pela audiência televisiva é uma competição sem tréguas.

Figurative/Intense
"Competição de cão e rato"

— A cat-and-mouse competition; a game of pursuit and evasion.

A negociação parecia uma competição de cão e rato.

Figurative/Informal
"Competição pela sobrevivência"

— Competition for survival; a struggle to stay alive or relevant.

No mundo natural, a competição pela sobrevivência é constante.

Figurative/Natural Sciences
"Quem corre, alcança"

— He who runs, catches up (implying effort in competition leads to success).

Na vida, quem corre, alcança, especialmente numa competição.

Proverbial/Motivational

Easily Confused

Competição vs Concurso

Both 'competição' and 'concurso' translate to 'contest' or 'competition' in English and can be used for events where people strive to win.

'Competição' is a more general term for any contest or rivalry, including sports. 'Concurso' is often used for contests with specific judging criteria, like talent shows, beauty pageants, or exams for public service jobs. You can have a 'competição de talentos' (talent competition) which might also be called a 'concurso de talentos'.

A competição de natação (swimming competition) vs. O concurso de Miss Portugal (Miss Portugal contest).

Competição vs Torneio

Both words relate to organized events where participants compete.

'Torneio' specifically refers to a 'tournament', which is a series of matches or competitions played over a period, usually to determine an overall winner. A tournament is made up of many individual 'competições'. So, a 'torneio de futebol' (football tournament) consists of many 'competições de futebol' (football competitions/matches).

O torneio de xadrez (chess tournament) terá várias competições (competitions/rounds).

Competição vs Rivalidade

Competition inherently involves rivalry, so the terms are closely linked.

'Competição' is the act or event of competing. 'Rivalidade' is the state or feeling of being rivals; the ongoing tension or animosity between competitors. A strong 'rivalidade' can lead to intense 'competições'.

Existe uma grande rivalidade entre os dois clubes de futebol, o que torna cada competição entre eles muito emocionante.

Competição vs Disputa

'Disputa' can also refer to a contest or struggle.

'Disputa' often implies a more contentious or argumentative struggle, or a dispute over something specific. While it can mean contest, 'competição' is more commonly used for organized events with clear rules and objectives, especially in sports or games. 'Disputa' can also mean a legal dispute.

A competição pelo título de campeão foi intensa. Houve uma disputa acirrada pela posse da bola.

Competição vs Competitivo

It's the adjective form derived from 'competição'.

'Competição' is a noun (the event or act of competing). 'Competitivo' is an adjective describing someone or something that likes to compete or is characterized by competition. For example, 'Ele é muito competitivo' (He is very competitive), and he often participates in 'competições'.

O atleta tem um espírito competitivo e adora a competição.

Sentence Patterns

A1

A competição é [adjective].

A competição é divertida.

A1

Eu gosto de competição.

Eu gosto de competição.

A2

Participei numa competição de [noun].

Participei numa competição de dança.

A2

A competição de [noun] foi [adjective].

A competição de robótica foi desafiadora.

B1

A competição [adjective] atraiu [noun].

A competição internacional atraiu muitos atletas.

B1

É preciso [verb] na competição.

É preciso esforço na competição.

B2

A competição por [noun] [verb].

A competição por clientes aumenta.

B2

Fomentar uma competição [adjective].

Fomentar uma competição saudável.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

Related

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How to Use It

frequency

High

Common Mistakes
  • Using masculine articles/adjectives. → A competição é interessante.

    The word 'competição' is feminine, so it requires feminine articles ('a', 'uma') and adjectives ('interessante', 'difícil'). Saying 'o competição' or 'um competição' is incorrect.

  • Confusing 'competição' with 'concurso' or 'torneio' in specific contexts. → O torneio de xadrez foi um sucesso.

    While related, 'torneio' means tournament (a series of matches) and 'concurso' often implies judging criteria. 'Competição' is more general. Using the specific term when appropriate adds clarity.

  • Mispronouncing the final 'ão' sound. → kom-peh-tee-SAHNG

    The 'ão' ending is a nasal diphthong. It's not pronounced as a simple 'ao'. Practice saying it with air passing through your nose.

  • Using 'competição' for general 'struggle' or 'argument'. → Houve uma disputa acalorada sobre a decisão.

    While 'competição' can be used figuratively for striving, for a direct argument or dispute, 'disputa' or 'discussão' might be more fitting.

  • Forgetting the accent on the 'i'. → competição

    The accent mark on the 'i' indicates the stressed syllable and is crucial for correct spelling and pronunciation. Forgetting it can lead to mispronunciation.

Tips

Gender Matters!

Remember that 'competição' is a feminine noun. Always use the feminine article 'a' or 'uma' before it, and ensure any adjectives describing it also agree in gender (e.g., 'uma competição difícil', not 'um competição difícil').

Nasal Sounds

Pay close attention to the nasal sounds in 'competição', especially the initial 'o' and the final 'ão'. Practice saying 'com' and 'são' with air passing through your nose to get the correct Portuguese pronunciation.

Beyond Sports

Don't limit your use of 'competição' to just sports. Think about academic challenges, business markets, or even friendly rivalries among friends. This word applies to many areas of life.

Visual Association

Create a strong mental image for 'competição'. Imagine a trophy, a finish line, or people striving intensely. Associating the word with a vivid picture can significantly aid recall.

Sentence Building

Write several sentences using 'competição' in different contexts (sports, school, business). Try to include adjectives and prepositions to make your sentences more descriptive and grammatically correct.

Listen Actively

When watching Portuguese movies or listening to music, actively listen for the word 'competição'. Try to catch the context in which it's used to deepen your understanding of its application.

Cultural Significance

Understand that in many Portuguese-speaking cultures, competition is often viewed with a blend of admiration for skill and a strong emphasis on 'fair play' and sportsmanship. Major events like the World Cup are national passions.

Exploring Alternatives

Learn related words like 'concurso', 'torneio', and 'rivalidade'. Understanding their subtle differences will allow you to choose the most precise word for your intended meaning.

Root Word Power

The Latin root 'petere' (to seek, strive) is common in many languages. Connecting 'competição' to its root meaning of 'striving together' can help solidify its core concept.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Imagine a 'com-pa' (company) having a 'ti-tion' (tension) because they are in a fierce competition to get the contract. The 'com' sounds like 'company' and 'ti-tion' sounds like 'tension'. So, 'Company tension' during a competition.

Visual Association

Picture a grand stadium filled with cheering crowds, with a prominent trophy on a pedestal in the center. The word 'Competição' is written in large, bold letters above the trophy, signifying the event's importance.

Word Web

Sports Games Rivalry Contest Winning Prize Effort Striving

Challenge

Try to describe a recent competition you watched or participated in, using the word 'competição' at least three times in your description. Focus on what made the competition exciting or challenging.

Word Origin

The word 'competição' comes from the Latin word 'competitio', which itself derives from 'competere'. 'Competere' is formed from 'com-' (together) and 'petere' (to seek, to aim for, to strive for). So, the original meaning was 'to strive together' or 'to seek together', implying a shared goal or prize that individuals aimed for.

Original meaning: To strive together; to aim for together; to contend for.

Indo-European > Italic > Latin > Romance > Portuguese

Cultural Context

While competition is celebrated, it's important to be mindful of the potential for exclusion or undue pressure, especially in educational or youth settings. Promoting healthy competition ('competição saudável') that emphasizes effort, learning, and sportsmanship over just winning is often encouraged.

In English-speaking cultures, competition is also a significant aspect, particularly in sports, business, and academics. The term 'contest' is often used for more structured events, while 'rivalry' describes the ongoing relationship between competitors. The American emphasis on 'winning' is sometimes contrasted with a perceived European emphasis on participation.

The Olympic Games (Jogos Olímpicos) are a prime example of global 'competição'. The FIFA World Cup (Campeonato Mundial da FIFA) is perhaps the most popular 'competição' in football. Famous literary or artistic 'competições' like 'concursos literários' (literary contests) are common.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Sports events

  • competição desportiva
  • competição de futebol
  • competição de natação
  • participar na competição

Academic challenges

  • competição académica
  • competição de matemática
  • competição de ciências
  • concurso académico

Business and markets

  • competição de negócios
  • competição de mercado
  • competição acirrada
  • empresa em competição

Arts and culture

  • competição artística
  • competição de talentos
  • competição literária
  • concurso de beleza

General rivalry/challenges

  • competição pela vida
  • competição de ideias
  • competição saudável
  • entrar em competição

Conversation Starters

"What's your favorite type of competition to watch or participate in?"

"Do you think competition is good or bad for society? Why?"

"Can you tell me about a memorable competition you've experienced?"

"How important is winning versus participating in a competition?"

"What are some of the biggest competitions in your country?"

Journal Prompts

Describe a time you felt intense pressure during a competition. What did you learn from that experience?

Reflect on a competition you lost. What were the positive takeaways from not winning?

Imagine a competition where the goal is not to win, but to collaborate. What would that look like?

Write about a competition you would love to enter if you had the chance. What skills would you need?

How does the idea of competition influence your daily life, even in small ways?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

While winning is often the ultimate goal in a 'competição', the word itself refers to the act of striving or contending. Many modern educational and sporting philosophies emphasize the value of participation, effort, and learning ('aprender') over just winning, promoting 'competição saudável' (healthy competition).

The plural form of 'competição' is 'competições'. For example, 'As competições deste ano foram muito emocionantes.' (This year's competitions were very exciting.)

Absolutely! 'Competição' is a very versatile word. It's used for academic challenges ('competição académica'), business rivalry ('competição de mercado'), talent shows ('competição de talentos'), and even for abstract concepts like 'competição de ideias' (competition of ideas).

Generally, 'competição' is broader. Use 'concurso' when there's a clear judging process or selection based on merit for a specific prize or position, like a beauty pageant or a job competition. For a general sports match or a race, 'competição' is usually more fitting.

'Torneio' refers to a tournament, which is a series of competitions. A tournament is the overarching event, and it consists of multiple individual 'competições' (matches or rounds).

Yes, 'competição' is a feminine noun in Portuguese. You will always use feminine articles and adjectives with it, such as 'a competição' (the competition) or 'uma competição interessante' (an interesting competition).

Yes, it can. For instance, you might hear about 'competição pela sobrevivência' (competition for survival) in nature, or 'competição de ideias' (competition of ideas) in a brainstorming session. It implies a struggle or striving for something, not necessarily a formal contest.

'Competição acirrada' translates to 'fierce competition' or 'close competition'. It describes a contest where the participants are very closely matched, and the outcome is uncertain until the very end.

The pronunciation is roughly 'kom-peh-tee-SAHNG'. The stress is on the 'ti' syllable, and the 'ão' at the end is a nasal sound, similar to the 'un' in French 'un'.

Yes, depending on the context, you might also use 'concurso' (contest, exam), 'torneio' (tournament), 'disputa' (dispute, contest), or 'rivalidade' (rivalry). However, 'competição' is the most general and widely used term.

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