What are the definitions of “contend with”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Deal with or struggle against.
I’ve got quite enough to contend with bringing up three kids.
- 2To deal with or face a difficult situation or problem.
They had to contend with winds of over 40 miles an hour.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “contend with”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb contend with is to deal with or struggle against a difficult situation, problem, or challenge. It often implies that the person is facing a tough or demanding task.
What are the different verb forms of “contend with”?
| Root Verb | contend with |
| Third Person Singular Present | contends with |
| Present Participle | contending with |
| Simple Past | contended with |
| Past Participle | contended with |
Example
She has to contend with a lot of stress at work.
Example
He contends with many challenges in his daily life.
Example
They are contending with a difficult financial situation.
Example
Yesterday, she contended with a difficult customer.
Example
The team has contended with numerous obstacles to achieve success.
What kind of phrasal verb is “contend with”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Transitive verb
“contend with” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.
Example
She contended with the difficult task.
Example
They contended with the strong winds during the storm.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“contend with” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
She contended with the difficult task.
Example
They contended with the strong winds during the storm.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “contend with”?
Contend with someone
To compete against someone, especially in a contest or competition.
Example
The team had to contend with a strong opponent in the championship game.
Contend with a problem
To face and deal with a difficult issue or situation.
Example
The company had to contend with a sudden drop in sales.
Contend with an obstacle
To struggle against a barrier or hindrance.
Example
The hikers had to contend with rough terrain on their journey.
Good things to know
Does “contend with” have an informal or formal tone?
Contend with is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, such as business meetings or academic discussions.
