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contest

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /kənˈtɛst/

KK: /kənˈtɛst/

intransitive verb
Definition

To compete or struggle against others in a challenge or competition.


Example

Many athletes contest for the gold medal in the Olympics.


Tense Forms

Past: contested

Past Participle: contested


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you hear about the art contest happening this weekend?
Sloth B
Yeah, I heard it's going to be pretty competitive!
Sloth A
I’m thinking of entering, but I know I’ll have to contest against some talented artists.
Sloth B
You should definitely give it a shot — it’ll be a great experience!

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
compete
strive
contend
Antonyms
yield
submit
relinquish
noun
Definition

A competition where people or groups try to win by performing tasks or skills, often judged by others.


Example

She entered the singing contest to showcase her talent.


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you hear about the new contest happening this weekend?
Sloth B
Yeah, I saw the flyer at the café!
Sloth A
I’m thinking of entering the contest to see how I do.
Sloth B
transitive verb
Definition

To challenge or dispute something, often in a formal way, such as a decision or a claim.


Example

She decided to contest the election results because she believed there were irregularities.


Tense Forms

Past: contested

Past Participle: contested


Conversation
Sloth A
I heard you plan to contest the results of the election.
Sloth B
Yeah, I think there were some serious issues with the voting process.
Sloth A
That makes sense; it’s important to contest anything that seems unfair.
Root Explanation

Contest → It is formed from "con-" (meaning together) and "testari" (meaning to witness or testify). Originally, it described people coming together to prove or bear witness to something.

Memory Tip

Think of people 'together' ('con-') trying to 'prove' something ('testari').

Visually Confused Words
recontest
congest
cones
subcontest
precontest
cointerest
countess
conquest
Is this page helpful?
That sounds fun! I’d love to cheer you on.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
competition
tournament
match
Antonyms
cooperation
harmony
peace
Sloth B
Exactly! We need to make sure everyone's voice is heard.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
challenge
oppose
dispute
Antonyms
accept
yield
submit