contend
contend — verb
1. to take part in a competition or race, trying to defeat others and win a prize,
to take part in a competition or race, trying to defeat others and win a prize, title, or position.
Three candidates are contending for the party's presidential nomination.
contend + for + [position / nomination]
Local shops contend fiercely with big supermarkets for the same customers.
contend + with + noun + for + noun
The team from Brazil will contend against Japan in the final round.
Adina and her partner contend for the top prize at the national dance competition.
Companies from both countries contend for contracts in the growing solar energy market.
- compete
Most general term; 'compete' is slightly less formal than 'contend' and more common in everyday speech.
- vie
More literary or formal; suggests eager rivalry over a limited resource, often used with 'for'.
- struggle
Emphasises difficulty and effort rather than formal competition; can be used with 'against' for adversity.
- strive
Focuses on effort and determination rather than direct rivalry; often used with 'for' or 'to do something'.
文法句型
contend + for/against/with + noun phrase
用法筆記
Intransitive — always takes a preposition (for, against, with). Common in politics, sports, and business contexts when describing rivalry.
常見錯誤
2. to express a firm belief about a fact or situation, especially when involved in
to express a firm belief about a fact or situation, especially when involved in a disagreement or formal debate.
Many climate scientists contend that human activity is warming the planet.
contend + that-clause for asserting a fact in debate
The defence lawyer contended that the witness had changed their story several times.
Henrik contends that the current tax system unfairly benefits the wealthiest households.
Some economists contend that the new policy will reduce unemployment over the next decade.
The report contends that better public transport is key to cutting traffic in urban centres.
- assert
Very similar in register and strength; 'assert' may sound slightly more forceful, while 'contend' suggests the claim is part of a broader debate.
- claim
Less formal; 'claim' can be used even when the statement is unproven or doubtful, whereas 'contend' carries more conviction.
- maintain
Emphasises holding a position over time, often despite opposition or counter-arguments.
- argue
Suggests providing reasoning or evidence, while 'contend' focuses more on the act of stating a position firmly.
文法句型
contend + that-clause
用法筆記
Frequently used in formal or academic writing. The subject is often a person, organisation, or document (report, study, article). Stronger than 'think' or 'believe' — implies confidence and often a willingness to defend the claim.