"Match wits with" is a phrase commonly used to describe a situation where two or more people engage in a battle of intelligence or strategy. There are several synonyms that can be used in place of this phrase to convey a similar meaning, such as "compete intellectually," "engage in a battle of wits," "match minds," "spar intellectually," or "contest one's cleverness."
These synonyms highlight the idea of challenging one's mental capacity and testing their knowledge and wit against another person. Whether it's in a game of chess or a heated debate, using these synonyms can add a touch of sophistication and intrigue to your language, making your conversations more engaging and exciting.