WordValecompetitive advantage
what lets a firm outperform its rivals
In more detail
a feature or quality that makes a company or product better or more successful than its competitors
Examples
- Our competitive advantage is that we offer better customer service at lower prices than other companies.
How to use competitive advantage
Competitive advantage is a business and economics term describing what sets an organization apart from competitors, typically discussed in strategic planning and marketing contexts. It emphasizes durability and market positioning rather than temporary benefits. The phrase is often paired with 'sustainable' when referring to long-lasting superiority.
Common phrases
- gain a competitive advantage
- maintain competitive advantage
- lose competitive advantage
- sustainable competitive advantage
- competitive advantage over rivals
- provide a competitive advantage
Synonyms
edge · competitive edge · market advantage · superiority · strategic advantage
Opposites
disadvantage · weakness
Word family
compete · competition · competitive · competitiveness · advantage
A common mistake
Learners sometimes use it interchangeably with 'competition' or 'competitiveness,' but competitive advantage specifically refers to a differentiating strength rather than the rivalry itself or the quality of competing well.
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