enter competition

You use this phrase when talking about organized events. Use it with sports, art contests, or even business awards. It works perfectly with the verb to decide. For example, "I decided to enter the competition last night." You can also use it in the past tense as entered. It sounds natural and active. It shows you are taking a brave step forward.

Use it when you are talking about your hobbies. Tell your friends if you join a bake-off. Use it at work if your company joins an industry award. It is great for school or university settings too. If you see a poster for a talent show, this is your phrase. It works well in texts, emails, and face-to-face chats.

Do not use it for casual games with friends. You don't enter a competition for a quick game of cards. That is just playing a game. Avoid it for job interviews. You apply for a job, you don't enter it like a race. Also, don't use it for arguments. If you are fighting with a sibling, that is a conflict, not an entered competition. Keep it for organized events with clear rules.

In English-speaking cultures, there is a huge "give it a go" attitude. People love the idea of the underdog entering a big contest. From local village flower shows to huge TV shows like 'X Factor'. The phrase carries a sense of ambition and fun. It is often seen as a brave first step toward a dream. There is a famous saying: "You have to be in it to win it!"

You might hear people say enter a contest or sign up for a race. In the UK, people might put their name down for something. In the US, joining a tournament is very common. Submit an entry is a more formal way to say the same thing. All of these mean you are ready to compete!