win

To do better than other people in a game, race, or competition.

• I want to win this game.
• Our team won the match yesterday.
• Who is winning the race?

How to use it: win against someone (We won against the strongest team.)

Similar words: triumph, come first

Opposites: lose

Common phrases: win a game, win a race, win the election, win a match

To receive something because you succeed in a competition or a game of chance.

• You could win a bike.
• His film won three awards last year.
• Have you ever won money in a raffle?

How to use it: win something (She won a silver medal.)

Opposites: lose

Common phrases: win a prize, win an award, win the lottery

To gain power over people or events so that your aims succeed.

• We cannot let fear win.
• The bullies won by keeping everyone silent.
• Hatred will win if we stop helping each other.

Similar words: prevail, dominate

Opposites: lose

Common phrases: let someone win, win through fear

A success in a game, race, or competition.

• That was an easy win.
• The team celebrated three wins in a row.
• Their first win of the season came on Saturday.

How to use it: a win against someone (It was our first win against that team.)

Similar words: victory, success

Opposites: loss, defeat

Common phrases: easy win, first win, win against someone