The phrase "vie with" is spelled with the letter combination "ie" instead of the expected "i" because the "v" sound causes the preceding vowel to form a diphthong. The first two letters "vi" are pronounced as "vai" /vaɪ/, with the tongue gliding from the "a" vowel to the "i" vowel. This results in the need for the "e" to maintain the "long i" sound /aɪ/ at the end of the word. "Vie with" means to compete or struggle for superiority, and is typically pronounced /vaɪ wɪð/.
"Vie with" is a phrasal verb that is commonly used in the English language and has a variety of meanings depending on the context in which it is used. The verb "vie" itself means to compete, contend, or strive for superiority or advantage. When used in combination with the preposition "with," it indicates that someone or something is competing or contending with another entity in a particular activity or pursuit.
In a literal sense, "vie with" can refer to a physical competition, such as two athletes vying with each other in a race or two chess players vying with each other in a game. It signifies a situation where individuals or groups are striving to outdo or surpass one another to attain a certain goal or win.
However, "vie with" is not only limited to physical competitions but can also be used metaphorically. It can be employed to describe situations where people or things are competing for attention, recognition, success, or any other kind of advantage. For instance, businesses may vie with each other for market dominance, scholars may vie with each other for academic recognition, or politicians may vie with each other for public support.
Overall, "vie with" denotes a competitive relationship between entities, whether it be individuals, groups, or abstract concepts, who are actively challenging and striving against one another to achieve superiority, success, or a desired outcome.
The word "vie" has its origins in the Old French verb "vivre", which means "to live". Over time, it developed into the modern French word "vie", meaning "life". In English, "vie" is first recorded around the 16th century and originally referred to the act of contending or competing for superiority or success. The phrase "vie with" implies engaging in such competition or rivalry with someone, striving to outdo or surpass them.