bitter rival
Fierce longtime competitor
A bitter rival is a competitor toward whom one feels intense, long-standing animosity.
The bitterness suggests the rivalry has grown personal, fueled by repeated clashes, perceived slights, or high stakes: The two tennis champions have been bitter rivals for a decade.
The phrase implies mutual hostility that goes beyond ordinary competition.
- nemesisPersistent source of ruin
- arch nemesisPrincipal long-term antagonist
- adversaryEnemy in conflict
- sworn enemyVowed lifelong adversary
- foeHostile opponent
mortal enemy · enemy · archenemy · opponent · competitor · feud · blood feud · bad blood · grudge · vendetta · score to settle · showdown · grudge match · clash · duel · hatred · resentment · animosity
relationship nature
bitter rivalclose ally
best friend · close friend · trusted partner · dear friend · bosom buddy
bitter, rival, bitterly, bitterness, bittern, rivals, rivalry, rivalries