we are contending

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we are contending" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing a position or argument in a debate or discussion, indicating that you are asserting a particular viewpoint or competing against others. Example: "In this paper, we are contending that climate change is the most pressing issue of our time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

"We are contending they seriously omitted a significant revenue," Mr. Sanders said of the insurer.

The New York Times

We are contending more with incremental indifference than forthright objection, and no number of polite letters or coaxing phone calls seem to persuade them to reconsider.

The Guardian - Opinion

And now we are contending with terrorism, volatile oil prices, high levels of corporate, government and personal debt, and a sluggish world economy.

Forbes

Meanwhile, he argues, we are contending with chronically high unemployment, insurmountable debt payments and a crushing tax burden that could kill U.S. competitiveness.

Forbes

"Apophis was the least sophisticated threat actor, and from the attack traffic analysis, not related to any of the past or current threat actors we are contending with," he continues, adding: "ProtonMail unfortunately is a popular target because we are well known as a highly hardened target, and there is a sizeable amount of "bragging rights" that comes with being able to cause us difficulty.

TechCrunch

"Yes, I think we are (contending for one place)," added Drogba.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

Her demeanor betrays nothing of the verdict we're contending with.

The New Yorker

"We're contending for the Big East title and teams are coming hard after us," a frustrated Barkley said after the Seton Hall loss.

The New York Times - Sports

We can't rely on the easy way down, because we're contending with BROKEN ELEVATORS, and apparently Mr. Collins feels that we could use some exercise anyway (11 Down).

The New York Times

There are many countries desperate for our help, where we could set up a democratic, prosperous alternative to the autocracy that we're contending with in the Middle East right now.

The New Yorker

Because we were contending with small sample sizes, we utilized an approach to garner "strength across numbers".

Journal of Patient-Reported Outcomes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "we are contending," ensure that the claim is supported by evidence and reasoning within your text. This strengthens the credibility of your assertion.

Common error

Avoid using "we are contending" in casual conversations or informal writing. It is more appropriate for formal debates, academic papers, or professional reports. Alternatives like "we think" or "we believe" are better suited for informal contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we are contending" serves as a declarative statement, introducing a specific claim or viewpoint. According to Ludwig AI, it's used when expressing a position or argument. Examples show it in formal contexts like news reporting and academic discussion.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we are contending" is a grammatically sound phrase used to introduce a formal argument or viewpoint. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. It is commonly found in news, scientific, and business contexts, signaling a reasoned and deliberate assertion. While versatile, it is best reserved for formal settings to maintain its impact and credibility. Consider alternatives like "we are arguing" or "we are asserting" in scenarios where a more nuanced expression is needed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we are arguing

Focuses specifically on presenting an argument or viewpoint.

we are asserting

Emphasizes a strong and confident declaration of a particular stance.

we are facing

Shifts the focus to confronting or dealing with a challenge or situation.

we are grappling with

Highlights the struggle and effort involved in understanding or resolving something.

we are combating

Implies active opposition or fighting against something.

we are struggling with

Highlights the difficulty and effort to contend.

we are dealing with

Indicates a practical approach to managing or handling a situation.

we are up against

Emphasizes the competitive aspect of facing an opponent or challenge.

we are rivaling

Highlights direct competition or rivalry in the same domain.

we are vying for

Emphasizes competition for a specific goal or position.

FAQs

How can I use "we are contending" in a sentence?

"We are contending" is used to state an argument or position, often in a formal context. For example, "We are contending that the current policy is ineffective".

What are some alternatives to "we are contending"?

Alternatives include "we are arguing", "we are asserting", or "we are maintaining", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "we are contending" suitable for informal conversations?

No, "we are contending" is generally too formal for informal conversations. Consider using phrases like "we think" or "we believe" instead.

What's the difference between "we are contending" and "we are arguing"?

While similar, "we are contending" suggests a more reasoned and formal presentation of a viewpoint, whereas "we are arguing" can imply a more heated or active debate.