contend with
B2 neutral inseparable transitive
In simple words
To have to deal with something difficult or to compete against someone.
Meanings
1 B2 neutral
To struggle against or deal with a difficult problem, situation, or obstacle.
"On top of their financial troubles, they now had to contend with a broken heating system in the middle of winter."
Grammar: inseparable
2 C1 formal
To compete against someone or something for a prize, position, or advantage.
"Several strong candidates will contend with each other for the party leadership."
Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes
Often used in negative or challenging contexts. Frequently appears in the phrase 'have to contend with'. Common in both formal and informal writing. Implies that the challenge is significant and ongoing.
Commonly used with
problem challenge competition opposition pressure rival
Forms
Base
contend with
I/you/we/they
3rd person
contends with
he/she/it
Past simple
contended with
yesterday
Past participle
contended with
have + pp
-ing form
contending with
continuous
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