you contend that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "you contend that" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to introduce a statement or argument that someone asserts or maintains to be true. Example: "In your essay, you contend that climate change is primarily caused by human activity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

Senator Joe Biden once called steroids "un-American," but you contend that they're intensely American.

The New York Times - Sports

You contend that "recent" incidents suggest that the "current system" is not working.

The New York Times

In "Recalcitrant North Korea" (editorial, Nov. 4), you contend that further patient diplomacy is the right course of action in dealing with the dangerous government of North Korea.

The New York Times

You contend that the administration is saying that "Israel has a right to defend itself against terror... but not at the cost of regional chaos".

The New York Times

Do you contend that the statute complies with the requirement of Miranda, that it could be a substitute adequate procedure, or do you think the statute overrules Miranda?

The New York Times

The cheating company may not like it, but bill collectors will leave you alone in a hurry when you contend that the company in question owes you money.

The New York Times - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

Judge William W. Wilkins, who is serving on the panel with Judges Karen J. Williams and Roger L. Gregory, asked Mr. Chertoff: "Are you contending that the national security concerns are so great that we should not even consider" Mr. Moussaoui's Sixth Amendment rights?

The New York Times

You could contend that small states shouldn't have that much influence, and that minority voters shouldn't either.

The New York Times

You could contend that the novel itself is somewhat manic and hysterical, so Kate Bush's vocal is true to the tone of her source material, and yet, what a gamble to take.

The Guardian - Music

8. Do you still contend that Iraq was involved, directly or indirectly, in 9/11? 9/11

Huffington Post

Fletcher contends that is not enough.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "you contend that" when you want to accurately represent someone's position, especially when it might be debated or require further examination. This phrase is suitable for analytical writing where objectivity is important.

Common error

Avoid using "contend" in casual conversation or informal writing. Simpler phrases like "say" or "think" are usually more appropriate and natural in those settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "you contend that" functions as a reporting verb or a discourse marker, used to introduce or attribute an argument, claim, or opinion to someone. Ludwig's examples showcase its use across varied source domains.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "you contend that" serves as a formal and precise way to introduce someone's argument or claim. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and primarily used in news and media, as well as scientific contexts. While not as frequent as simpler alternatives like "you say that", it offers a level of formality suitable for analytical and objective writing. When using this phrase, ensure accuracy in representing the original statement and consider the tone and context of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

you argue that

Implies a reasoned presentation of evidence to support a claim; slightly less formal.

you assert that

Suggests a confident and forceful statement, potentially without detailed proof.

you claim that

Indicates that something is stated as a fact but might be questioned or unproven.

you maintain that

Implies persistence in holding a belief or opinion, even in the face of opposition.

you propose that

Suggests putting forward an idea or plan for consideration.

you suggest that

Presents an idea tentatively or indirectly.

you posit that

Formally presents an idea as a basis for reasoning or discussion.

you submit that

Presents something for consideration or judgment, often in a legal or formal context.

you put forward that

Introduces an idea for discussion or debate.

you advance that

Formally presents an argument or idea, often to promote a particular viewpoint.

FAQs

What does "you contend that" mean?

The phrase "you contend that" means you assert something as a point of view, belief, or argument, often when that assertion might be disputed or requires further examination.

What are some alternatives to "you contend that"?

Alternatives include "you argue that", "you claim that", "you assert that", or "you maintain that", each with slight nuances in meaning.

When is it appropriate to use "you contend that"?

Use "you contend that" in formal writing or analytical contexts where you want to accurately represent someone's position, especially when it might be open to debate or requires further scrutiny.

Is "you contend that" more formal than "you say that"?

Yes, "you contend that" is more formal than "you say that". The former is suitable for academic or professional writing, while the latter is more appropriate for general conversation or informal writing.