How Do You Spell RAT-RACE?

Pronunciation: [ɹˈatɹˈe͡ɪs] (IPA)

The term "rat-race" is commonly used to describe the competitive and stressful nature of modern day life. The spelling combines the words "rat" and "race" and is pronounced /ˈræt reɪs/ using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The phonetic transcription indicates that the stress falls on the first syllable, with the "a" sound in "rat" pronounced short and the "a" sound in "race" pronounced long. This spelling accurately reflects the common pronunciation of the term in everyday speech.

RAT-RACE Meaning and Definition

  1. Rat race is a colloquial term used to describe a competitive, aggressive, and repetitive way of life in which individuals engage in intense efforts to succeed, excel, or achieve greater material wealth and social status. The term "rat race" vividly conveys the idea of a relentless pursuit with no clear destination, where individuals constantly feel pressured to keep up with the fast pace and high demands of modern society.

    In the rat race, people often find themselves caught up in a never-ending cycle of long working hours, deadlines, and the constant need to outdo their peers. This term is often associated with the corporate world or highly competitive professions, where the pursuit of success can become all-consuming, leaving little time for personal fulfillment or meaningful relationships.

    The rat race is characterized by its perceived lack of fulfillment, as individuals may find themselves sacrificing their well-being, time, and personal interests to the demands of their professional lives. It is a state where one can feel trapped, experiencing chronic stress, burnout, and a sense of emptiness.

    The term "rat race" aims to question the value and purpose of such a frenetic lifestyle, suggesting that individuals might be chasing goals that do not truly bring them happiness or contentment. It encourages contemplation on the importance of striking a balance between professional success and personal well-being, reminding people to prioritize their own health, satisfaction, and overall quality of life above mere financial and social achievements.

Common Misspellings for RAT-RACE

  • raat race
  • rat rece
  • rat rase
  • ratprace
  • rat0-race
  • rat-0race
  • ratp-race
  • rat-prace
  • rat--race
  • ratmrace
  • Rate-race
  • Rat-raze
  • Rout-race
  • Rate-rase
  • Rat-raise
  • Rat-racey

Etymology of RAT-RACE

The etymology of the word "rat-race" is derived from the concept of rats competing for survival in a maze-like environment. The term emerged in the mid-20th century to describe the relentless and competitive nature of human life and work in modern society. The rat-race refers to the constant pursuit of success, material possessions, and societal approval, often with little regard for personal fulfillment or well-being.