horse race

The term "horse race" can refer to both an actual event involving horses and a metaphor for any close and competitive contest, particularly in politics.

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Definition

B1Sports

(general)An event where horses compete to finish a course in the shortest time, usually ridden by jockeys.

Example

  • The annual horse race attracted thousands of spectators.
  • Betting on a horse race can be thrilling.

B2Politics

(metaphorical)A highly competitive and closely contested event, often referring to political elections.

Example

  • The election turned into a horse race as the candidates were neck and neck.
  • Media coverage of the campaign made it seem like a horse race.

Similar

Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "horse race":

one-horse raceboat racecaucus racebarrel racedrag racescratch racestreet racerun for the rosesracing certaintyrat racesport of kingshorse hockeydrag racingrace liftled horserace cardshort track