What does "rivalry" refer to?

Rivalry refers to a situation in which two or more parties compete against each other in a way that highlights their conflicting interests or desires. It usually involves an ongoing competition where each party strives to outdo the others, whether in sports, business, academics, or other fields. The essence of rivalry lies in its competitive nature, where each contender is motivated by the achievement of superiority or victory over the others.

In this context, the other options do not align with the meaning of rivalry. A collaborative effort implies working together towards a common goal, a state of peace suggests a lack of conflict or competition, and a friendship denotes a bond of mutual affection and support, which contrasts sharply with the competitive tension inherent in rivalry. Thus, the choice that best captures the essence of rivalry is an ongoing competition.