contend

//kənˈtend//

Verbs
C1

Translation

contend

Definition

To contend means to struggle or compete against someone or something in order to achieve a goal or assert a position. This verb often appears in contexts of rivalry, debate, or physical effort, where multiple parties vie for success or recognition. For example, athletes contend for medals, lawyers contend in court, and individuals contend with personal challenges. It can also imply asserting a claim or opinion forcefully, as in arguing a point. The word carries a sense of active effort and opposition, whether in sports, arguments, or daily life.

Example

  • Several teams will contend for the championship title this year.

  • She had to contend with heavy traffic to reach the meeting on time.

  • The lawyer contended that her client was innocent based on new evidence.

  • Farmers often contend with unpredictable weather conditions.

  • In the debate, he contended that education reform is essential for economic growth.

  • The two companies contend for market dominance in the tech industry.

  • She must contend with her own fears before she can speak in public.

  • Historians contend that the battle was a turning point in the war.

  • The athlete trained hard to contend in the Olympic trials.

  • Many small businesses contend with rising costs and limited resources.

Synonyms

compete
struggle
vie
argue
assert

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