1. Emphasis on Competition: This interpretation focuses on the importance of competition. It could mean:
* Highlighting the significance of competition: "The coach put a lot of stress on competition, emphasizing that it was the key to improvement."
* The pressure to compete: "The stress on competition was overwhelming, with everyone striving to be the best."
2. Stress Caused by Competition: This interpretation focuses on the negative impact of competition:
* The anxiety and pressure of competing: "The stress on competition caused many athletes to experience burnout."
* The negative consequences of competitive pressure: "The constant stress on competition was taking a toll on their mental health."
3. The Specific Focus of Stress: This interpretation uses "competition" as the object of the stress. It might mean:
* The source of stress is the competition itself: "The main stress on competition was the fear of losing."
* The specific aspect of competition causing stress: "The stress on competition was the constant pressure to perform."
To understand the exact meaning, you need more context from the situation where the phrase is used.
For example, consider these sentences:
* "The company placed a strong stress on competition, rewarding employees for their sales performance." This sentence emphasizes the importance of competition within the company.
* "The stress on competition was evident in the athletes' tense expressions and strained bodies." This sentence highlights the negative impact of competition on the athletes.
Without more information, it's impossible to definitively interpret the meaning of "stress on competition."