Definition of Unrivalled
Quick Meaning of Unrivalled
The best of its kind; no one or nothing can compare to it. It's superior to everything else.
Detailed Definition of Unrivalled
Better than all others; having no equal or competitor; unmatched in quality, skill, or achievement.
How to Pronounce Unrivalled
Stress pattern: oOo (3-syllable word).
Tip: Stress the second syllable: un-RY-vuld. Say it as 'un' + 'RY' + 'vuld'. The 'riv' part sounds like 'rival' (RY-vul).
Watch out: Some learners stress the first syllable (UN-rivalled) instead of the second. Correct: un-RY-vuld. Also remember British spelling: -ll- (unrivalled), not single -l- (unrivaled).
Origin and Etymology of Unrivalled
From prefix 'un-' (not) + 'rivalled' (past participle of 'rival'). 'Rival' comes from Latin 'rivalis' (using the same stream). Grammaticalized to mean 'competitor', then negated. British spelling: 'unrivalled'; American: 'unrivaled' (one 'l').
How to Use Unrivalled in a Sentence
Each example shows “unrivalled” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“Her skill as a pianist is unrivalled in the classical music world.”
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“The company's technological innovation remains unrivalled in the industry.”
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“His reputation for integrity is unrivalled among his peers.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Unrivalled
Common Synonyms for Unrivalled
Smart Synonyms for Unrivalled — When to Use Each
- unsurpassed
- Synonym meaning exactly the same; slightly more formal
- peerless
- More poetic/literary; emphasizes 'without equal'
- incomparable
- Broader term; means 'cannot be compared'; slightly
Common Collocations with Unrivalled
These phrases pair with “unrivalled” in everyday English:
- unrivalled quality
- unrivalled expertise
- unrivalled success
- remain unrivalled
- unrivalled in
Common Mistakes When Using Unrivalled
Even fluent speakers slip up with “unrivalled”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: His achievements are unrivalled than others.
- ✓ Correct: His achievements are unrivalled. / His achievements are unrivalled compared to others.
- Why: 'Unrivalled' is absolute (already means 'best'). Don't use 'than' after it. Use 'compared to' if needed.
- ✗ Wrong: The unrivaled quality is important.
- ✓ Correct: The unrivalled quality is important. (British) / The unrivaled quality is important. (American)
- Why: British spelling has double 'l'; American has single 'l'. Both are correct in their regions.
Words Confused With Unrivalled
- Unrivalled vs Unsurpassed: Very similar meaning; 'unrivalled' emphasizes having no competitor, while 'unsurpassed' emphasizes exceeding/surpassing all others
Other Forms of Unrivalled
- Adjective: unrivalled
- Adverb: unrivalledly
Frequently Asked Questions About Unrivalled
What is the meaning of "Unrivalled"?
The best of its kind; no one or nothing can compare to it. It's superior to everything else.
How do you pronounce "Unrivalled"?
The IPA is /ʌnˈraɪvəld/. Stress the second syllable: un-RY-vuld. Say it as 'un' + 'RY' + 'vuld'. The 'riv' part sounds like 'rival' (RY-vul).
What part of speech is "Unrivalled"?
"Unrivalled" is an adjective at C2 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Unrivalled"?
Common synonyms include unsurpassed, matchless, peerless.
How do you use "Unrivalled" in a sentence?
For example: "Her skill as a pianist is unrivalled in the classical music world."