Definition

The practice of trying to show that you are better than someone else, often by boasting or competing in a clever way.

Example

His constant one-upmanship made it hard for others to feel comfortable around him.

Conversation

I noticed there’s a bit of upmanship in our friend group lately.

Yeah, it's like everyone is trying to outdo each other.

I wonder if it's always been this way or if it's just a recent trend.

Could be recent; it definitely makes conversations more interesting!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Upmanship → The word is formed from 'up' (meaning higher or superior) and 'manship' (from Old English 'man' meaning person and 'ship' meaning condition or quality). The term describes the condition of being superior or better than others, particularly in a competitive context.

Memory Tip

Think of someone trying to be 'higher' or 'better' ('up') than others in a competitive situation, which is what 'upmanship' means.

Visually Confused Words