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."
inseparable
contend with
B2 neutral inseparable transitive
To deal with or struggle against a difficult problem, person, or situation.
In plain English
To have to deal with something difficult or to compete against someone.
What does "contend with" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
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."
inseparable
Usage tip
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.
Words that pair with "contend with"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
problem challenge competition opposition pressure rival
How to conjugate "contend with"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
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
Hear "contend with" in the wild
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