Lemondrop

Name: The Contender

Identifying Characteristics: This uber-competitive acquaintance is always going on about her successes -- the great guy she just met, the way she got a raise the day everyone else got fired, her mastery of the no-hands headstand in yoga. Come to think of it, she always goes off on exactly the things that you're most sensitive about in your own (single-ass, laid-off, inflexible) life. Hmmm ... coincidence?

Field Study: Lisa, 25, from Philadelphia, has an especially bad FT situation because they're both graphic designers. "He has a really over-inflated idea of his talent and is constantly telling me what awards he's won, wanting to talk business and is a really horrible in-your-face networker," she says. "He's a really nice person, he just has NO social skills when it comes to blending fun and work."

Why You Keep the Contender Around: Most of the time, you like this person -- as long as you're not comparing notes. That or you're something of a Contender yourself, and secretly relish the opportunity to beat your "pal."

Got a Friend Terrorist -- a super toxic friend -- you want to tell us about? Share your story in the comments or drop us a line! We promise we'll change all identifying characteristics and incriminating details!