come into contention

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "come into contention" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that something has entered a state of competition or dispute, often in a context where different parties are vying for something. Example: "Several candidates have come into contention for the position of CEO after the recent resignation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

29 human-written examples

Again if they are referred to as islands in song, they can come into contention.

The Guardian - Music

Jack Littlejohn will also come into contention to fill in for Brooks.

The Guardian - Sport

Nicklas Bendtner is, however, back after the best part of three months out following groin surgery, and the Denmark striker could come into contention to start at Chelsea.

Independent

However, if South Africa selectors opt to shore up their batting order then left-hander Dean Elgar could come into contention.

The Guardian - Sport

The striker Danny Haynes could come into contention after his recent arrival from Barnsley, while Sheffield United are expected to be unchanged.

The Guardian - Sport

Billy Davies, sacked by Derby County on Monday, may come into contention, but may choose to hold out for another - and more lucrative - position in England.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

"Basically nobody else came into contention.

The Guardian - Film

After that I had a few niggling injuries and other guys came into contention.

The Guardian - Sport

He also comes into contention for the England squad that will be announced on Sunday for the friendly with Slovakia and the World Cup qualifier against Ukraine.

The Guardian - Sport

Robbie came into contention during the indoor season last year and then went on to win bronze at the Olympics.

BBC

Stoke City's Marc Wilson will miss the trip to Glasgow through injury, so English-born former Scotland Under-21 international Alex Pearce comes into contention to deputise alongside centre-half O'Shea.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "come into contention", ensure the context clearly indicates what the subject is competing for or being considered for. Be specific to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "come into contention" when there is no element of competition or active consideration. For instance, don't use it to describe a simple event occurrence; use it only when someone or something is vying for a position or outcome.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "come into contention" primarily functions as a verb phrase indicating the commencement of a state where someone or something is considered a possible candidate or participant, often in a competitive environment. Ludwig AI confirms this usage aligns with standard English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Sport

30%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Science

2%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "come into contention" is a common and grammatically sound way to express that someone or something is now being considered as a possible candidate or participant, typically in a competitive scenario. As supported by Ludwig AI, it is frequently encountered in news and media, particularly in sports reporting, where individuals or teams are vying for a title or position. While versatile, it's best used when there is an element of competition or active consideration involved. Alternatives such as ""become a contender"" and "enter the running" offer similar meanings, though with slightly different nuances. Remember to ensure clarity by specifying what the subject is competing for to avoid ambiguity in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

become a contender

Emphasizes the competitive aspect and suitability as a candidate.

enter the running

Suggests participation in a competition, often implying an earlier absence.

be in the running

Indicates an active state of competition and possibility of success.

emerge as a candidate

Focuses on the process of becoming a possible choice.

be considered a possibility

Highlights the potential for selection or inclusion.

enter the equation

Implies the addition of a new element or factor to consider.

become eligible

Highlights the fulfillment of requirements to participate.

be up for consideration

Suggests the topic is being looked at carefully.

put oneself forward

Highlights that someone is proactively presenting as a participant.

throw one's hat in the ring

An idiomatic expression signifying entry into a competition, especially politics.

FAQs

How to use "come into contention" in a sentence?

Use "come into contention" to indicate that someone or something has become a possible candidate or competitor for a role, position, or prize. For example, "After his impressive performance, he will "become a contender" for the MVP award".

What can I say instead of "come into contention"?

You can use alternatives like ""become a contender"", "enter the running", or "be considered a possibility" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "come into contention" or "come into competition"?

"Come into contention" is used when someone is being considered for something, implying a competition. "Come into competition" is less common but can be used when directly referring to entering a competitive event or scenario.

What's the difference between "come into contention" and "become eligible"?

"Come into contention" suggests a competitive scenario where someone is being considered among others. "Become eligible" refers specifically to meeting the requirements to participate, which doesn't necessarily imply competition.