are contending that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are contending that" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in formal contexts to indicate that someone is asserting or arguing a particular point or position. Example: "The researchers are contending that their findings challenge the existing theories in the field."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

But they are contending that Sterling has faced similar claims in his real estate business.

The New York Times

In essence, prosecutors are contending that certain essential technologies described by Enron did not work.

The New York Times

[C6.] Beware the Checked Baggage Readers are contending that many things have been stolen from their bags checked at airports.

The New York Times

In other instances, plaintiffs are contending that birth defects in their children are linked to parental exposure to workplace chemicals.

The New York Times

In the probate case here, Mr. Marshall's lawyers are contending that Ms. Smith illegally interfered with his inheritance rights.

The New York Times

They are contending that the new Forest Code is needed to support Brazil's economy, which draws strength from exports of agricultural products like beef, soybeans, sugar and poultry.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

Already, one of his advisers is contending that Mr. Obama's strategies have "failed".

The New York Times

Skyworks is contending that Advanced Analogic breached the ordinary course covenant in the parties' acquisition agreement.

The New York Times

"No one is contending that Donald Sterling would march up and down the halls, carrying a K.K.K. sign," Douglas said.

The New York Times

In effect, the troop is contending that its First Amendment rights supersede the public accommodations law of New Jersey.

The New York Times

In the 2009 report, there was the additional feature of the belittling of those who were contending that hacking was widespread.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "are contending that" in formal writing when you want to indicate that someone is asserting a particular point of view, especially in situations where there may be opposing viewpoints or ongoing debate.

Common error

Avoid using "are contending that" in casual conversation or informal writing. Simpler alternatives like "are saying" or "think" are often more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are contending that" functions as a reporting verb phrase. It introduces a statement, argument, or claim that someone is making, often in a formal or contested context. Ludwig AI confirms this usage is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are contending that" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression, particularly within news, scientific, and formal business contexts. Ludwig AI validates its correctness and usability. It serves as a reporting verb phrase, introducing claims, arguments, or positions, often within a contested or debated environment. While versatile, it's best suited for neutral to professional registers, and should be replaced with simpler options in informal settings. Alternatives like "are asserting that" or ""are arguing that"" can be used to fine-tune the intended nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are asserting that

Replaces "contending" with "asserting", indicating a confident and forceful statement.

are arguing that

Substitutes "contending" with "arguing", implying a reasoned presentation of a viewpoint.

are claiming that

Replaces "contending" with "claiming", suggesting an assertion that may or may not be supported by evidence.

are maintaining that

Changes "contending" to "maintaining", indicating a persistent assertion over time.

are positing that

Replaces "contending" with "positing", suggesting a proposition put forward for consideration.

are proposing that

Substitutes "contending" with "proposing", indicating the presentation of an idea or plan.

are suggesting that

Replaces "contending" with "suggesting", implying a less direct or forceful assertion.

are alleging that

Changes "contending" to "alleging", suggesting an accusation that has not been proven.

are of the opinion that

Replaces the entire phrase with a more verbose expression of belief.

take the position that

Replaces the entire phrase, emphasizing a formal stance or viewpoint.

FAQs

How can I use "are contending that" in a sentence?

You can use "are contending that" to introduce a claim or argument someone is making, especially when it is part of a debate or discussion. For example, "The lawyers "are contending that" the evidence was mishandled."

What's the difference between "are contending that" and "are arguing that"?

While both phrases are similar, "are contending that" often implies a more formal or legal context, while "are arguing that" suggests a more general debate or discussion. You could replace "are contending that" with "are arguing that" in some situations.

What can I say instead of "are contending that"?

You can use alternatives like "are asserting that", "are claiming that", or "are maintaining that" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "are contending that" suitable for formal writing?

Yes, "are contending that" is perfectly suitable for formal writing. It adds a level of sophistication and precision, especially in academic or legal contexts. However, in informal writing, simpler alternatives like "are saying" or "think" might be more appropriate.