WordGarden.iononcompetitive
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /nˌɒnkəmpˈɛtɪtˌɪv/
US
- /ˌnɑnkəmˈpɛtətɪv/
Meanings
Adjective
not involving rivalry or contest; done without trying to beat others
not wanting to compete with others or to win against them
not able to compete well in a market, especially in price, pay, or terms
Beyond the definition
Imagine a group of kids building with LEGO bricks. If they are noncompetitive, they happily share pieces, help each other, and enjoy what everyone makes. No one is trying to "win" or prove they are the best builder. The word describes situations where people are not pushing against each other to come out on top. That does not mean they are lazy or do not care. It simply means working together, having fun, or improving matters more than winning. You might see this in some classrooms, hobby groups, or family game nights where joining in is more important than beating other people.
"Noncompetitive" describes something that does not center on competition or on trying to do better than other people. It is not just about not competing. It usually suggests an atmosphere or approach where winning is not the main goal, and working together often matters more.
The word is often used for environments or activities. A noncompetitive classroom, for example, focuses more on learning and personal growth than on grades or ranking students against one another. A noncompetitive sports league, class, or activity might focus on skill-building, enjoyment, or health instead of head-to-head results. Think of a casual running group where people join for fitness and community, not to beat everyone else.
The word can also describe a person's attitude or a relationship between people. A noncompetitive person may care less about proving they are better than others and more about doing well in their own way. A noncompetitive relationship may be based more on support and shared interests than on comparison or trying to outdo each other.
It is important to note that "noncompetitive" does not mean "unmotivated." People in noncompetitive settings can still care deeply and work hard. Their drive may come from enjoyment, personal growth, or a wish to cooperate, rather than from a need to outperform others.
So, if you see something described as noncompetitive, think of a setting where cooperation, participation, and shared success matter more than being "number one."
Examples
- 1
Youth sports
The school offers noncompetitive sports for kids who just want to play.
- 2
Fitness
Yoga gave her a calm, noncompetitive way to stay active.
- 3
Workplace culture
The company tries to create a noncompetitive workplace where people share ideas freely.
- 4
Race division
The race has a noncompetitive division for walkers and beginners.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Grant process
The grant was given through a noncompetitive process, so only one organization was considered.
- Phrasenoncompetitive process
a process without an open contest or bidding
- 6
Salary
The salary was noncompetitive, so several strong candidates turned down the job.
- Phrasea noncompetitive salary
pay that is too low compared with similar jobs
See also
Similar
- not competitive
- nonrivalrous
Shades of meaning
- cooperative
- recreational
- low-stakes
Contrast
- competitive
- rivalrous
Do not confuse
Used with (collocations)
- noncompetitive sport
- noncompetitive activity
- noncompetitive environment
- noncompetitive bidding
Word family
- noncompetitively
- competitiveness
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Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- noncompetitiveadjective