contested
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /kənˈtɛstɪd/
KK: /kənˈtɛstɪd/
adjective
Definition
Describing something that is argued about or disputed, often because people have different opinions about it.
Example
The election results were contested by several candidates who claimed there were irregularities.
Conversation
Did you hear about the election results?
Yeah, it was really contested this year.
I know, right? I can't believe how close the votes were.
It makes you think about how passionate people are about their choices.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
debated
disputed
controversial
Antonyms
uncontested
accepted
settled
verb
Definition
To argue against something or to challenge it, often in a formal way.
Example
The results of the election were contested by several candidates.
Tense Forms
Past: contested
Past Participle: contested
Conversation
Did you hear about the match last night?
Yeah, I heard it was really exciting!
It was, especially since they contested every point fiercely.
Root Explanation
Contested → It is formed from "con-" (meaning together) and "testari" (meaning to witness or testify) with the addition of the suffix "-ed" (indicating a past action). The word "contested" means that something has been challenged or disputed by people coming together to witness or argue against it.
Memory Tip
Think of people coming 'together' ('con-') to 'witness' ('testari') a disagreement or challenge — that's why contested means something has been disputed.
Visually Confused Words
uncontested
congested
untested
uncontestedly
uncontented
uncongested
tested
counterstep