it contended that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it contended that" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when presenting an argument or claim made by a person or group in a formal context, such as academic writing or legal documents. Example: "In the court case, it contended that the evidence was insufficient to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But it contended that was more of a problem for Mr. Bush, who they said was trying to turn the election into a referendum on Mr. Kerry rather than one about the president.

The New York Times

On Tuesday, it took its campaign to the British parliament, where it contended that many of these women were prosecuted after being coerced by police into retracting their allegations.

Vice

It contended that "the EU, by dint of its sheer size as marketplace, has the stature to stand up to the likes of Apple" and continued: "It is painful to think what position HM Treasury will be in in these sorts of scraps, post-Brexit.

The Guardian

It contended that Microsoft was using earlier versions of its Windows operating system software to muscle rivals out of the market for server software.

The New York Times

When the prosecution made its case to indict the seven now on trial, it contended that the commission members' discussions at the meeting contained little real evaluation of the ongoing swarm, describing their analysis as "approximate, generic, and ineffective".

Science Magazine

Although the Berlin Zoo conceded Neumünster's ownership of Knut due to a previous agreement, it contended that the other zoo has no right to its proceeds.

Wikipedia

It contended that neither Fed.Rule Crim.Proc.

Cornell University

It contended that a Cuban exile had recruited the suspects.

The New York Times

It contended that Mr. Smith's report was unfair.

The New York Times

[n1] Nor is it contended that this limit on the profit is unreasonable.

Cornell University

It contended that it had been misled about the health of the company.

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it contended that" to introduce a formal statement or argument, particularly when reporting on disputes, legal matters, or official positions. This phrase adds a level of formality and objectivity to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "it contended that" in casual conversation or informal writing. Opt for simpler alternatives like "it said that" or "it thought that" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it contended that" serves as a reporting verb phrase. Ludwig AI confirms its role in introducing a statement or argument made by an entity. It frames the subsequent information as a contention or assertion.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Academia

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it contended that" is a versatile phrase used to formally introduce a claim, argument, or position. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct and most commonly found in news and academic writing. While effective for conveying objectivity and formality, it's best to avoid using it in casual contexts. Consider alternatives like "it argued that" or "it claimed that" to suit different tones and levels of formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it argued that

Emphasizes a reasoned presentation of a viewpoint.

it asserted that

Implies a confident and forceful declaration.

it maintained that

Suggests a consistent and persistent stance.

it claimed that

Indicates a declaration that may or may not be true.

it posited that

Introduces a theory or hypothesis.

it alleged that

Highlights an accusation without proof.

it suggested that

Offers a tentative or indirect proposition.

it proposed that

Presents a plan or suggestion for consideration.

it submitted that

Conveys a formal presentation of an argument.

it reasoned that

Focuses on the logical thinking behind a statement.

FAQs

How can I use "it contended that" in a sentence?

Use "it contended that" to introduce a formal statement or argument made by an entity. For example, "The company contended that the allegations were false."

What can I say instead of "it contended that"?

You can use alternatives like "it argued that", "it asserted that", or "it claimed that" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "it contended that" and "it claimed that"?

"It contended that" suggests a formal argument or position, while "it claimed that" implies a statement that may be disputed or lack evidence. The choice depends on the context and the level of formality required.

Is "it contended that" formal or informal?

"It contended that" is generally considered a formal phrase suitable for academic, legal, or journalistic writing. In more casual contexts, simpler alternatives are preferable.