In direct competition WSJ Crossword Clue

By Date: FEB 14, 2026 Follow on Google

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Frequently Asked Questions About This Clue

The most common and recent 9-letter answer for "In direct competition" is MANOAMANO.

The phrase 'mano a mano' is Spanish for 'hand to hand' and is commonly used to describe a direct competition or confrontation between two people. The clue suggests a face-to-face or one-on-one challenge, which fits the meaning of the phrase.

This clue was last seen in the WSJ Crossword on February 14, 2026.

A direct confrontation or competition between two people.

Fighting style from OMAN

The clue “In direct competition” is a classic crossword staple, frequently appearing in puzzles like the WSJ crossword. For the puzzle dated February 14 2026, the definitive 9-letter answer is: MANOAMANO.

Expert Tip: When you’re stuck, try to analyze the structure of the clue itself. Is it a direct definition, a pun, a fill-in-the-blank, or a pop culture reference? Identifying the type of clue you’re dealing with is a key skill for improving your solving speed.

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