mutual encouragement; friendly rivalry; emulation
Refers to a positive, constructive relationship where people spur each other on to improve, rather than a cutthroat competition. Often used in contexts like study, work, or sports where peers motivate one another.
He and I have a good relationship of mutual encouragement.
The friendly rivalry with my classmates led to improved grades.
Compound of 励み (はげみ, 'encouragement, effort') + 合い (あい, 'mutual, together'). The verb form is 励み合う (はげみあう).