to contend with something

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to contend with something" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe dealing with a difficult situation or challenge. Example: "She had to contend with numerous obstacles while trying to complete her project on time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

They also have the internet to contend with – something you didn't have to worry about back in the day.

The Guardian - Film

When runners did make it on base, they had to contend with something else -- his deceptive move to first.

The New York Times - Sports

If the ballot measures do not pass, however, Mr. Schwarzenegger will have to contend with something less than historic success, a place he is not accustomed to.

The New York Times

But if you really are eager, to say nothing of desperate, for a long-term partner you may have to contend with something else — the tyranny of unwitting compromise.

The New Yorker

Of course, Android has to contend with something Apple does not – OEMs like Samsung running their own mobile wallets to compete with Google Pay (previously called Android Pay).

TechCrunch

But the Resistance has to contend with something the Tea Party doesn't: the map.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Of course, their reticence begins to feel like a blessing after you contend with something like the recent rerelease of "There's Something About Mary," which now has six hours of commentary and extras.

The New York Times

Congress—and Ben S. Bernanke and Henry Paulson—had to do something to contend with the worst financial panic since the 1930s.

Forbes

In the quest to achieve these impossible standards, it's easy to see food as something to contend with rather than to enjoy.

Huffington Post

And only then, when you perceive your self-aware suffering as something to contend with and not hide from, can you really be in recovery.

Huffington Post

The downside is the continued proximity and the wagging tongues; it can also be harder down the track if you're both in the same workplace, married, and going for the same promotion but that's something to contend with later on.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "to contend with something" when you want to emphasize the challenging or problematic nature of a situation that needs to be addressed. It suggests a degree of difficulty or conflict.

Common error

Avoid using "to contend with something" for everyday inconveniences. Reserve it for scenarios that genuinely involve overcoming obstacles or managing significant challenges. Opt for simpler phrases like "to deal with" or "to handle" for less demanding situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to contend with something" functions as a verbal phrase indicating the act of dealing with a difficult or challenging situation. As shown in Ludwig, it suggests a degree of effort and potential conflict in managing a particular issue.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Wiki

17%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "to contend with something" is a versatile verbal phrase used to describe the act of dealing with a difficult or challenging situation. Ludwig's analysis reveals that the phrase is grammatically correct and most frequently found in news and media contexts. It serves to highlight the presence of obstacles and the effort required to overcome them. When using this phrase, ensure the situation warrants the implication of difficulty, opting for simpler alternatives like "to deal with" for less demanding scenarios. Remember that while "to contend with something" can convey a more challenging implication than "to deal with something", both refer to managing a situation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to deal with something

Focuses on the act of managing or handling a situation, rather than necessarily implying a struggle.

to grapple with something

Emphasizes a more intense struggle or effort in trying to overcome the challenge.

to face something

Highlights the act of confronting a situation directly, without necessarily implying difficulty.

to cope with something

Suggests managing or enduring a difficult situation, often over a period of time.

to handle something

Indicates managing or controlling a situation, implying a degree of skill or competence.

to manage something

Implies controlling or directing a situation, often to achieve a specific outcome.

to address something

Focuses on taking action to resolve or improve a situation.

to confront something

Emphasizes a direct and often forceful approach to dealing with a challenge.

to combat something

Suggests actively fighting against or opposing a problem or challenge.

to tackle something

Indicates a determined and practical approach to resolving a problem.

FAQs

How can I use "to contend with something" in a sentence?

Use "to contend with something" to describe a situation where someone faces difficulties or challenges. For instance, "The company had "to contend with" increased competition and rising costs."

What are some alternatives to "to contend with something"?

Alternatives include "to deal with something", "to grapple with something", or "to face something". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "to contend with something" in formal writing?

Yes, "to contend with something" is suitable for formal writing, especially when describing significant challenges or obstacles. However, ensure the context warrants the level of emphasis the phrase implies.

What's the difference between "to contend with something" and "to deal with something"?

"To contend with something" often implies a greater degree of difficulty or struggle compared to "to deal with something". While both refer to managing a situation, "to contend with" suggests a more demanding or problematic scenario.