contended by

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "contended by" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a point of view or argument that is asserted or maintained by someone, often in a debate or academic context. Example: "The theory was contended by several researchers who provided alternative explanations for the phenomenon."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

47 human-written examples

That stage could be created, he contended, by dividing society into phalanges.

Britannica

It is further contended by plaintiffs in error that this is, in effect, a suit against the state.

Cornell University

MR. ALTER provides ample evidence that Mr. Obama is not a "socialist," as contended by some conservative commentators.

The New York Times

The city could have saved the 20 cent cent fare, he contended, by voting funds to subsidize tran, sit operations.

The New York Times

The government was also negligent, the plaintiffs further contended, by not having adequate equipment on hand to fight that fire.

The New York Times

Secondly, it is contended by petitioner that the Act in question is unconstitutional because compliance compels self-incrimination in contravention of the Fifth Amendment.

Cornell University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

13 human-written examples

It will not thrive, either, his critics contend, by shedding the principles supposed to define it.

The New York Times

More damage was done, Roberts contends, by the government's policy of keeping the Venona cables secret.

The New York Times - Books

The family's actions were prescribed, defense lawyers contend, by a centuries-old Albanian code of honor.

The New York Times

They do this largely, the report contends, by placing advertising in publications and television broadcasts that appeal to youth.

The New York Times

It is hardly an exact science, but one can almost evaluate a team's chances of contending by listing how many things must go right.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "contended by" ensure that the subject making the contention is clearly identified to avoid ambiguity. For example: "It is "contended by" experts that..."

Common error

Avoid overusing the passive voice with "contended by", as it can sometimes make your writing sound less direct. Consider rephrasing to use the active voice for a more impactful statement. For example: Instead of "It is "contended by" researchers", try "Researchers contend that".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "contended by" primarily functions as a passive construction used to attribute an argument, assertion, or claim to a specific source. This highlights whose perspective or viewpoint is being presented, as shown by examples from Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Academia

31%

News & Media

44%

Science

21%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "contended by" is a common passive construction used to attribute a claim or argument to a specific source. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used across various contexts, especially in academic, scientific, and news-related sources. While alternatives like "argued by" or "asserted by" exist, "contended by" offers a specific nuance of active maintenance of a viewpoint. When using this phrase, ensure clarity in identifying the source and avoid overusing passive voice to maintain a direct and engaging writing style.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

argued by

Direct synonym focusing on the act of presenting reasons for or against something.

asserted by

Emphasizes a confident and forceful statement of fact or belief.

maintained by

Suggests a continued or persistent assertion, often in the face of opposition.

claimed by

Highlights the declaration of something as one's own or as a fact.

posited by

Implies a more formal or academic presentation of an idea or theory.

submitted by

Suggests the presentation of an argument or proposal for consideration.

advanced by

Emphasizes the act of putting forward an idea or argument for discussion.

proposed by

Focuses on the suggestion of a plan or idea for consideration.

stated by

A neutral term indicating the expression of something in words.

alleged by

Highlights that a claim is made without proof or before being proven.

FAQs

What does "contended by" mean?

"Contended by" means that a particular point or argument is asserted, maintained, or claimed by someone. It's often used in formal writing to indicate a position held, sometimes against opposition.

How can I use "contended by" in a sentence?

You can use "contended by" to show who is making a specific claim or argument. For example, "It is "contended by" the defense that the evidence is circumstantial".

What are some alternatives to "contended by"?

Alternatives include "argued by", "asserted by", or "claimed by". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use active or passive voice with "contended by"?

While "contended by" uses passive voice, consider using active voice for a more direct style. For instance, instead of "It is "contended by" the author", you could say "The author contends that".