we contended that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we contended that" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in academic or formal writing to introduce an argument or assertion that the speaker or writer is making. Example: "In our research paper, we contended that climate change is primarily driven by human activities."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

We contended that the best approach was to describe the techniques as fully as possible and let readers draw their own conclusions.

The New York Times

We contended that in schizophrenic patients there was an abnormal production of adrenochrome, a derivative of adrenaline, and that this played a role in the genesis of the condition.

The Guardian

We contended that the import of glutathione by bacilli in infected macrophages, could possibly affect the ability of the macrophages to convert MG to lactate.

Plosone

We contended that each of these peaks corresponded to the TNFAIP3 deletion status.

BMC Cancer

But we contended that although highly beneficial, such models left to chance the research environment those foreign-trained researchers would encounter upon returning to their home institutions.

Global Health Action

In light of studies showing that RSK phosphorylates other transcription factors such as creb, c-fos [ 32] and the estrogen receptor [ 33], we contended that it may play an important role in regulating YB-1.

Breast Cancer Research

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

First, we contend that social media in this day and age cannot be ignored.

The New York Times

We contend that this is a misapplication of the ICF.

Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

We contend that this assumption is not valid.

Computer Networks

We contend that the inferences and conclusions we reached in the original paper are sound.

Appetite

We contend that these approaches are ill-suited for achieving sustainability transformations.

Journal of Cleaner Production

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we contended that" in formal writing, especially when introducing a significant argument or viewpoint backed by evidence. This phrase is particularly effective in academic papers, reports, or legal documents.

Common error

Avoid using "we contended that" in casual conversations or informal writing. The phrase can sound overly formal or pretentious in such settings. Instead, opt for simpler alternatives like "we thought" or "we believed".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we contended that" functions as a declarative statement introducing a claim or argument. It is primarily used to present a viewpoint that the speaker or writer believes to be true. Ludwig shows its use in formal contexts, such as academic papers and news articles.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

66%

News & Media

33%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we contended that" is a formal phrase used to introduce an argument or assertion, primarily in academic and scientific contexts. Ludwig confirms this, showing its frequent usage in publications and reports. It is grammatically correct, although less suitable for informal communication. For casual writing, consider using simpler alternatives like "we thought" or "we believed". While effective in professional settings, overuse in informal settings can sound pretentious.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we argued that

Simple substitution of "contended" with "argued".

we maintained that

Replaces "contended" with "maintained", suggesting a sustained argument.

we asserted that

Emphasizes a strong declaration, replacing "contended" with "asserted".

we posited that

Indicates proposing an idea or theory, replacing "contended" with "posited".

we submitted that

Suggests presenting an idea for consideration, replacing "contended" with "submitted".

we claimed that

Implies stating something as a fact, replacing "contended" with "claimed".

we suggested that

Replaces "contended" with "suggested", softening the force of the statement.

we proposed that

Indicates putting forward a plan or idea, replacing "contended" with "proposed".

we hypothesized that

Introduces a hypothesis, replacing "contended" with "hypothesized".

our contention is that

Rephrases the sentence to emphasize "contention" as a noun.

FAQs

What does "we contended that" mean?

The phrase "we contended that" means that a group (represented by "we") argued or asserted a particular point of view or idea. It is a formal way of introducing a claim or argument.

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

You can use "we contended that" to introduce a key argument or assertion, typically in a formal or academic context. For example, "In our study, "we contended that" the new policy would lead to improved outcomes."

What are some alternatives to "we contended that"?

Some alternatives to "we contended that" include "we argued that", "we maintained that", or "we asserted that". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "we contended that" too formal for everyday writing?

Yes, "we contended that" is generally considered too formal for everyday writing. In more casual contexts, consider using phrases like "we thought that" or "we believed that".