contest

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "contest" is correct and usable in written English.
It is a noun that means a competition between people or teams to win a prize. You can use it when talking about a competition or challenge. For example: "I entered a writing contest to win a summer holiday."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

Politics

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"There is no contest".

The Guardian

The first that other judges knew of his plan to contest the appointment of Boddice – who had been nominated two months earlier under a 20-year protocol – was a public statement the next day that it was "a matter for the chief justice under the electoral act".

The Guardian

When Liberal Democrat thoughts do turn to a new leader after the next general election, Chris Huhne, who finished second to Campbell in this year's contest, or a representative of he younger generation like Nick Clegg will inherit his crown.

The Guardian - Opinion

In September, hundreds of Dalit families were forced from their homes in two other districts of Bihar after a man from the community tried to contest a local election against higher caste candidates.

The Guardian

As Bournemouth grew into the contest so the pressure on Ipswich began to tell.

The Guardian - Sport

They are being bullied, they are being intimidated, they are being pressurised not to support me, so we don't have a contest".

The Guardian

Having followed in to contest the ball, Völler appeared to do all he could to avoid clattering Van Breuckelen in mid-air but an incensed Rijkaard attempted to drag Völler to his feet by the ear, then stamped on his foot, prompting the German to fall to the ground.

The Guardian - Sport

McGowan said she was "very relieved and very proud" to have won the closely-fought contest for the rural Victorian electorate, following Mirabella's concession on Wednesday morning.

The Guardian

The Western Bulldogs edged out West Coast in an intoxicating first-round contest, winning by 10 points to hand coach Luke Beveridge a winning debut as a coach.

The Guardian - Sport

Jarvis was seen as a very promising potential leadership candidate, but has ruled himself out of the contest, saying that it was not the right time for his family.

The Guardian

Other strong parliamentary hopes include Darren Johnson, who is a London assembly member and a councillor in Lewisham, who will contest Lewisham Deptford, and Adrian Ramsay, the party's deputy leader, who is fighting to defeat former minister Charles Clarke in Norwich South, where the Greens are the official opposition on the unitary council.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a competition, specify the type of "contest" (e.g. writing contest, beauty contest, singing contest) to provide clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "contest" interchangeably with words like "content" or "context". "Contest" refers to a competition, while "content" refers to the substance of something, and "context" refers to the circumstances surrounding an event or statement.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "contest" is as a noun, referring to a competition or event where individuals or teams compete. It can also function as a verb, meaning to challenge or dispute something, as supported by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Sport

25%

Politics

25%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "contest" is a versatile term primarily used as a noun to denote a competition or structured event. It can also function as a verb, meaning to dispute or challenge. Ludwig AI confirms that the word is grammatically sound and applicable across various contexts. The frequency of "contest" is very common, especially in news, sports, and political reporting. While generally neutral in tone, the specific context can influence the perceived formality. When writing, it's crucial to differentiate "contest" from words like "content" or "context" to avoid confusion. Using "contest" accurately enriches communication by precisely describing competitive scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

competition

A direct synonym, referring to an event or activity where people compete.

tournament

Implies a structured competition with multiple rounds.

match

Typically used for sporting events, indicating a head-to-head competition.

election

Specifically refers to a political competition for office.

game

Broad term for any activity with rules and competition.

rivalry

Highlights the competitive relationship between two or more parties.

dispute

Refers to a disagreement or argument, a verbal competition.

struggle

Emphasizes the effort and difficulty involved in competing.

battle

Implies a fierce and intense competition.

challenge

Highlights the act of questioning or disputing something.

FAQs

How to use "contest" in a sentence?

You can use "contest" to refer to a competition or challenge, such as "She entered the writing contest" or "The election became a heated contest".

What can I say instead of "contest"?

You can use alternatives like "competition", "tournament", or "match" depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "contest" or "competition"?

"Contest" and "competition" are often interchangeable, but "contest" may imply a more structured or formal event.

What's the difference between "contest" and "challenge"?

A "contest" usually involves structured rules and judging, whereas a "challenge" can be a less formal test of skill or ability.