Mastering the Verb ‘Contend’ for the GRE
Explore the versatile verb ‘contend’ and learn how to use it effectively in your vocabulary for the GRE. Understand its meanings, synonyms, and common errors to strengthen your verbal skills.
Are you ready to strengthen your verbal arsenal for the GRE? Today, we’re exploring a word that’s all about struggle, competition, and asserting oneself: contend.
This versatile verb is a valuable addition to your vocabulary, appearing frequently in academic texts and formal discussions.
Let’s dive into its meanings and uses to help you master this important word.
Word type: Contend is primarily used as a verb.
Meaning: Contend has several related meanings. First, it can mean to struggle or compete with others, often in a forceful way.
Second, it can refer to asserting something as a position in an argument. Lastly, it can mean to deal with a difficult situation or problem.
Word history: The word contend comes from the Latin word contendere, which means to stretch vigorously or to strive.
It’s composed of the prefix con, meaning together or thoroughly, and the root tendere, meaning to stretch or extend.
This etymology reflects the idea of exerting oneself fully in a competitive or argumentative context.
Antonyms: Some antonyms of contend include yield, surrender, concede, and acquiesce. These words all involve giving up or agreeing, rather than struggling or competing.
Synonyms: Synonyms for contend include compete, vie, struggle, argue, assert, claim, and grapple. These words all share the sense of active engagement or effort against opposition.
Examples use in sentences: Let’s look at some examples to see how contend is used in context. The two candidates will contend for the party nomination in the upcoming primary election.
Scientists contend that climate change is the most pressing issue of our time. As a small business owner, Sarah must contend with rising costs and increased competition.
Common errors in use: One common mistake is confusing contend with content. While they sound similar, content means satisfied or the things contained within something.
Another error is using contend with when you mean contend against. You contend with a problem, but you contend against a rival.
To wrap up, contend is a powerful word that conveys struggle, competition, and assertive argumentation.
Whether you’re describing a sports match, a debate, or dealing with life’s challenges, contend adds precision and impact to your language.
As you prepare for the GRE, practice using contend in your own sentences and look for it in your reading.
With time, you’ll find yourself contending with this word like a pro.
