I would contend

USAGE SUMMARY

'I would contend' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express a strong opinion or to introduce an argument. For example, "I would contend that the economy has not yet fully recovered."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

"I would contend it's not.

The New York Times - Health

"I would contend it's just not necessary.

The New York Times - Sports

But he does better waffle now, I would contend.

The Guardian

JON CARAMANICA: No, though I would contend that maybe they're protesting.

The New York Times

I would contend that health spending is no more optional than taxation.

The Economist

("I would contend Netflix spends wisely rather than lavishly," a Netflix spokesman, Steve Swasey, said in response).

The New York Times

"I would contend that at any given time, some amateur or professional astronomer is watching the Moon," she said.

The New York Times - Science

"I would contend that military histories are better for learning about corporate strategies and management technique than any other books".

The New York Times - Magazine

Largely, I would contend, and Bragg would deny, because of its non-withering-away sort of nature.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

But I would contend that his real comic persona, until he was 35, was that he was a total loser.

The Guardian

I'm one of six children, the only one who earns money from acting, although I would contend I'm the least dramatic and theatrical of all my siblings.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "I would contend", follow it with a 'that' clause for clarity. For example: "I would contend that this represents a change from the politics of the 20th century".

Common error

While "I would contend" is effective for emphasizing a point, avoid overusing it. Excessive repetition can make your writing sound repetitive and less impactful. Vary your language with alternatives like "I believe", "I argue", or "in my opinion".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I would contend" functions as a discourse marker used to introduce a strong opinion or argument. It signals that the speaker or writer is about to present a point they believe to be significant and wishes to emphasize. As supported by Ludwig, the phrase is commonly used in contexts where the speaker wants to assert a particular viewpoint.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "I would contend" is a versatile phrase used to introduce a strong argument or opinion. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across various contexts. While effective for emphasizing a point, avoid overuse and consider varying your language with alternatives such as "I would argue" or "in my opinion". Remember that this phrase is useful in formal and professional writing to clearly articulate your viewpoint and persuade your audience. Ludwig provides numerous real-world examples to guide usage and ensure clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I would argue

Similar in meaning, but slightly less formal and direct.

It is my contention

A more formal and emphatic version using a noun form of contend.

I would assert

More formal and emphatic, suggesting a confident declaration.

I would maintain

Implies holding a consistent opinion over time.

I submit that

Formal, often used in legal or academic contexts to introduce an argument.

I believe

A more general and less assertive expression of opinion.

I posit

Formal and academic, suggesting a hypothesis or starting point for discussion.

In my opinion

Directly states a personal viewpoint.

I propose

Suggests putting forward an idea for consideration.

I surmise

Expresses an opinion based on incomplete information; a guess.

FAQs

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

Use "I would contend" to introduce a strong assertion or argument. For example, "I would contend that the benefits of this policy outweigh the risks."

What does "I would contend" mean?

The phrase "I would contend" means "I would argue" or "I would assert". It is used to express a strong belief or opinion, often when presenting an argument.

What are some alternatives to "I would contend"?

You can use alternatives like "I would argue", "I would assert", or "in my opinion" depending on the context.

Is "I would contend" formal?

"I would contend" is considered relatively formal. Less formal alternatives include "I believe" or "in my opinion".