contend

IPA

Dictionary definition of contend

To assert, argue, or actively maintain a particular stance, belief, or opinion.
"The teams will contend for the championship title this weekend."

Detailed meaning of contend

When someone contends, they engage in a verbal or intellectual dispute, debate, or competition, often with the aim of persuading others or proving a point. Contending involves presenting arguments, supporting evidence, or counterarguments to support one's position or to challenge the opposing viewpoint. It implies a deliberate effort to confront, challenge, or engage in a struggle of ideas, opinions, or perspectives. People contend in various contexts, such as academic debates, legal proceedings, political discussions, or even casual conversations. The verb "contend" signifies an active and assertive approach to defending or advancing a viewpoint, often involving a passionate or determined effort to influence or convince others.

Example sentences containing contend

1. We contend with traffic every day on our way to work.
2. Athletes must contend against not only their competitors but also their own mental barriers.
3. Scientists often contend that evidence is essential for proving a theory.
4. They contend for the championship title this weekend.
5. In medieval times, knights would contend in tournaments for honor and glory.
6. Some people contend that the educational system needs an overhaul.

History and etymology of contend

The verb 'contend' has its etymological roots in the Latin word 'contendere,' which is a combination of 'con-' meaning 'together' and 'tendere' meaning 'to stretch' or 'to strive.' This etymology aptly conveys the essence of 'contend' as the act of figuratively stretching or striving together, often in the context of asserting, arguing, or actively maintaining a particular stance, belief, or opinion. It implies a competitive or assertive effort to present one's perspective or position, especially when it conflicts with others. The term 'contend' maintains its etymological connection to the concept of striving or stretching, highlighting the determination and effort involved in asserting one's point of view in debates, arguments, or discussions.

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Further usage examples of contend

1. The lawyers will contend in court to determine the outcome of the case.
2. I had to contend with a lot of setbacks in my career.
3. The two companies contend for market dominance.
4. Students contend that the university’s policies are outdated.
5. In the animal kingdom, predators often contend with each other for territory.
6. The software engineers had to contend with numerous bugs before launching the application.
7. The team contended admirably, but unfortunately didn't win.
8. In the debate, they will contend over various political issues.
9. We had to contend against strong winds during our hike.
10. The soldiers contend for freedom and justice.
11. In the novel, the protagonist contends with his inner demons.
12. When you travel abroad, sometimes you have to contend with language barriers.
13. Historians contend that the discovery of fire was a turning point in human evolution.
14. She continued to contend that honesty was the best policy.
15. Despite objections, he would contend for his right to free speech.
16. The scientists had to contend with skepticism regarding their findings.
17. They would contend that teamwork was the key to success.
18. In the debate, each candidate had to contend with tough questions.
19. He always liked to contend that kindness could change the world.
20. The students would contend that the new policy was unfair.
21. The lawyer had to contend with the opposing counsel's arguments.
22. It was challenging to contend with differing cultural perspectives.
23. Despite criticism, she would contend that art had intrinsic value.
24. The activists continued to contend for environmental conservation.