contend
kuhn-TEND
/kənˈtɛnd/
To struggle to surmount a difficulty; to assert something strongly in an argument.
Has a dual meaning: physically or metaphorically struggling against an obstacle (contend with), or asserting an intellectual claim (contend that).
The story behind the word. Contend comes from the Latin 'contendere', combining 'com-' (together) and 'tendere' (to stretch). It evokes the image of two athletes pulling on opposite ends of a rope, straining every muscle and stretching together in a physical struggle.
Word relationships
- assert: Assert means to state a belief confidently, while contend implies doing so in the face of opposition.
- grapple: Grapple implies a physical or highly emotional struggle, whereas contend is more strategic or argumentative.
- yield: Yield means to give up under pressure rather than continuing to struggle.
- agree: Agree means to harmonize opinions rather than asserting a opposing claim.
Commonly confused with
- content: Contend is a verb meaning to struggle or argue; content is an adjective meaning satisfied or happy.
Word family
- contender (noun): A person who struggles or competes for a prize or title.
- contention (noun): An assertion, or a state of discord and disagreement.
Collocations
- contend with
- contend that
- bitterly contend
- forces to contend with
Example sentences
- "The defense will contend that the evidence was gathered illegally and should be dismissed." Legal argument
Memory hook
Think of a CONTENDER in a boxing match who must CONTEND with a tough opponent. Stretching muscles to struggle together.
When not to use
Do not use when you simply mean 'to argue' in a petty, informal way; contend is formal and structured.
Fun facts
- The word 'tension' shares the same Latin root 'tendere' (to stretch) as 'contend', which is why contentions always feel so tense.
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