that a contest

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "that a contest" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a specific contest or when discussing the nature or characteristics of a contest. Example: "I didn't realize that a contest could be so competitive until I participated in one."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

There is naïveté, or possibly arrogance, in presuming that a contest half won is a mission accomplished.

The New York Times - Sports

But other Philharmonic officials, and the conductors themselves, sought yesterday to discourage the perception that a contest was being arranged.

The New York Times - Arts

Mr. Blankfein joked on Wednesday that a contest for least-hated banker was a race to the bottom and dismissed suggestions he was not long for his job.

The New York Times

Frankly, it's always frustrating as a journalist that global health and nutrition don't get more attention, and I figured that a contest would help arouse some buzz.

The New York Times

They know that a contest between two New York baseball teams is the most important event on the planet, for we told them so ourselves.

The New York Times

Florida law specifies that a contest has to be filed within 10 days after the last county election board certifies its result to the state.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

Mr. McCain won with more than double that in a contest that was noted for its mudslinging.

The New York Times

That adds up to a contest that will likely remain volatile for the next few months.

Huffington Post

That's a contest for the ages.

The Guardian - Sport

"That's a contest between America and Europe.

The Guardian - Sport

That's a contest of mutual loathing.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "that a contest", ensure the context clearly defines the specific contest to avoid ambiguity. For instance, specify the type or purpose of the contest immediately after the phrase.

Common error

Avoid using "that a contest" in contexts where the specific contest is unclear or undefined. Always provide sufficient detail to ensure the reader understands which contest is being referenced.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "that a contest" functions as a clause connector, introducing a subordinate clause that provides additional information or context about a contest. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "that a contest" serves as a clause connector, typically used to introduce a statement about the existence or implications of a competition. As Ludwig AI indicates, this phrase is grammatically correct and appears frequently in news and media sources, as well as scientific and wiki contexts. While the register is generally neutral, it can be adapted based on the surrounding language. When using this phrase, ensure the context clearly defines the specific contest to avoid ambiguity. Consider alternatives such as "the fact that there is a contest" or "the reality of a competition" to refine the nuance of your expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the fact that there is a contest

Emphasizes the factual existence of the contest.

the reality of a competition

Highlights the competitive nature of the event.

the circumstance of a competition

Focuses on the conditions surrounding the competition.

the idea of a competition

Highlights the theoretical concept of the competition.

that there's a competition

More informal and conversational alternative.

that a game is taking place

Replaces "contest" with a more general term.

the happening of a competition

Emphasizes the occurrence of the contest.

the matter of a competition

Introduces the competition as a subject of discussion.

that a competition exists

Focuses on the existence of the competition.

the existence of a competition

Emphasizes the fact that the competition is real.

FAQs

How can I use "that a contest" in a sentence?

You can use "that a contest" to introduce a clause that elaborates on the nature or implications of a contest. For example, "The fact "that a contest" between the two companies exists suggests a high level of competition in the market."

What are some alternatives to saying "that a contest"?

Alternatives include "the fact that there is a contest", "the reality of a competition", or "the circumstance of a competition" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to start a sentence with "that a contest"?

While it's not typical to start a sentence with "that a contest", it's grammatically correct within a clause. It's more common to use it within a larger sentence structure to provide context or explanation.

What's the difference between "that a contest" and "that the contest"?

"That a contest" refers to a general instance of a contest, while "that the contest" refers to a specific, previously mentioned contest. For example, "I was surprised "that a contest" even took place," versus "I knew "that the contest" would be challenging."