Contend against

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Contend against" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a struggle or competition against an opponent or challenge. Example: "The team will contend against their rivals in the championship match this weekend."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

35 human-written examples

The commissioners argued that buildings based on Kempthorne's plans would be symbolic of the recent changes to the provision of poor relief; one assistant commissioner expressed the view that they would be something "the pauper would feel it was utterly impossible to contend against", and "give confidence to the Poor Law Guardians".

Wikipedia

Now they have to contend against state schools and universities.

The New Yorker

We contend against the forces of disaster and degeneration.

The Guardian

The mountain climbers in "Solo Faces" contend against both gravity and the vagaries of age.

The New York Times - Books

They think "these are the last days, when a righteous remnant must contend against Satanic forces".

The Guardian - Books

Why should people with melanoma (black) contend against people with liver cancer (emerald green) over limited resources?

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

25 human-written examples

Initial costs of solar-photovoltaics have remained a significant factor contending against the wide-spread utilization of solar energy.

Solar Energy

It's a point that even a few months ago some pundits may have contended against.

The Guardian - Sport

Southeast Asia has been the crossroads of many peoples who have been contending against each other for centuries.

Encyclopedia Britannica

He added in another article: "As a national emblem, it is significant of our higher cause, the cause of a superior race, and a higher civilization contending against ignorance, infidelity, and barbarism".

Independent

Presiding over everything and contending against all is Duke's wife, Jerene, matriarch, steel magnolia, force of nature and just generally not a woman you'd ever want to cross.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "contend against", ensure the context clearly establishes what is being opposed. For example, "contend against injustice" is more impactful than simply "contend".

Common error

Avoid using "contend against" in overly casual conversation. Simpler phrases like "compete with" or "deal with" might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "contend against" functions as a verb phrase indicating a struggle or competition against an opposing force. As Ludwig AI states, the phrase is correct and usable in English, appearing in varied contexts. Examples show it used to describe resisting negative forces or competing against other entities.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Academia

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "contend against" is a grammatically sound and versatile phrase used to describe actively opposing or struggling against something. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage, finding it in diverse contexts ranging from news and media to academic and scientific writing. While suitable for neutral to formal registers, it should be used judiciously in informal settings. Consider alternatives like "compete against" or "struggle against" for nuanced expression. Remember to ensure clarity and purpose in your writing, effectively conveying the nature of the opposition. The frequency analysis indicates its common usage, especially in journalistic and scholarly contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Compete against

Focuses on the act of rivalry in a structured setting.

Struggle against

Highlights the difficulty and effort involved in the opposition.

Fight against

Emphasizes a more forceful and direct form of opposition.

Oppose

Indicates a direct disagreement or resistance.

Resist

Implies a more passive form of opposition, focusing on withstanding pressure.

Defend against

Highlights the act of protecting oneself or something else from an attack or threat.

Battle against

Suggests a prolonged and intense conflict.

Combat

Formal and direct way of expressing fighting a problem

Vie with

Focuses on competition for something desirable.

Withstand

Highlights the capacity to endure or resist the effects of something.

FAQs

How can I use "contend against" in a sentence?

Use "contend against" to describe a situation where someone or something is struggling or competing with an opposing force. For example: "The athlete must "contend against" fatigue to finish the race".

What are some alternatives to "contend against"?

You can use alternatives like "compete against", "struggle against", or "fight against" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "contend against" or "contend with"?

"Contend against" implies a more direct opposition, while "contend with" suggests dealing with a difficulty. The best choice depends on whether you're emphasizing opposition or management of a challenge.

What's the difference between "contend against" and "oppose"?

"Contend against" suggests a more active and effortful struggle, whereas "oppose" simply indicates a position of disagreement or resistance.