Translation guide
The English word "vying" describes competing or contending with others for something, often in a context of rivalry or striving. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through various verbs and phrases that convey competition, rivalry, or striving, depending on the nuance.
To describe people or groups competing against each other to win or achieve something.
A general verb meaning 'to compete' or 'to vie'. It can be used for various types of competition, from sports to business.
They are vying for the prize.
The two companies are vying for market share.
Means 'to compete' or 'to contend', often with a stronger sense of rivalry or conflict. It can imply a more aggressive competition.
The athletes are vying for the gold medal.
An idiomatic phrase meaning 'to compete fiercely' or 'to vie intensely'. Literally 'to sharpen the blades', it conveys cutthroat competition.
Companies are vying fiercely in the development of new technology.
To describe situations where people or things are trying to be noticed or chosen among many.
Describes a crowd of people or things jostling or vying for something, often in a chaotic or competitive manner. It can be used metaphorically.
Many candidates are vying for the position.
Same as above, but can also be used for vying for attention or recognition in a competitive field.
Often used in contexts like auctions or sports where competitors are closely matched and vying for victory. It implies a back-and-forth struggle.
Specifically for political elections or formal contests where candidates compete.
While both mean 'to compete', 競う (kisou) is often used for friendly or neutral competition, whereas 争う (arasou) can imply conflict or dispute. For 'vying' in a business or sports context, 競う is safer. Use 争う when the competition is more aggressive or contentious.
There is no single Japanese word that perfectly matches 'vying' in all contexts. Avoid trying to translate it directly; instead, choose the expression that fits the specific type of competition.
Popular actors are vying for the lead role.
オークションで二人の買い手がその絵を競り合った。
Two buyers vied for the painting at the auction.
She intends to vie for the presidency.