WordLens

contend

1 of 1verb
/kən.ˈtɛnd/
Forms:contends,contending,contended,contended
1

to compete actively or fight against others for a goal or victory

  • Teams from all over the country will contend for the championship title this weekend.
  • Several athletes contended for the gold medal in the marathon.
  • Two companies contended for the lucrative government contract.
  • The fighters contended in the ring for a chance at the world title.
  • The chefs contended for the top prize on the reality cooking show.
Synonyms:
2

to engage in a struggle, conflict, or battle

  • The two boxers will contend in the championship match, vying for the title with determination and skill.
  • Rival gangs in the city often contend over territory, leading to conflicts and confrontations.
  • Siblings may contend over inheritance, leading to disputes and disagreements about the distribution of assets.
  • He contends with rivals daily in the competitive tech industry.
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3

to argue the truth of something

C1transitive
  • The lawyer contended that her client was innocent based on new evidence presented in court.
  • He contended that climate change poses a serious threat to global ecosystems.
  • The historian contended that the ancient civilization was more advanced than previously believed.
  • Scientists contend that vaccination is the most effective way to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.
  • The politician contended that economic reforms would lead to greater prosperity for all citizens.
Synonyms:
4

to engage in a debate or argument by presenting opposing views

  • The panelists contended fiercely over the topic of climate change.
  • During the trial, the lawyers contended over the interpretation of the evidence.
  • The scientists contended in academic journals over the validity of the new theory.
  • Politicians often contend during debates to gain the public’s favor.
  • The committee members contended late into the night about budget allocations.
5

to argue or dispute about something

transitive
  • The two neighbors contended the property boundary in court.
  • Activists contended the government's decision to build on protected land.
  • The heirs contended the terms of the will, claiming it was unfairly written.
  • Environmental groups contended the developer's right to clear the forest.
  • They contended the election results, citing allegations of fraud.
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