The phrase "contends with" is commonly used to describe someone or something that is facing a challenging situation or opponent. The pronunciation of this phrase is /kənˈtɛndz wɪð/, which includes the phonetic symbols for the stressed syllables and the consonant sounds used in the word. The "k" sound at the beginning of "contends" is followed by the stressed syllable containing the short "e" sound, represented by the phonetic symbol /ɛ/. The second syllable, "with," includes the voiced "th" sound represented by /ð/.
Contends with is a phrase used to describe the act of struggling or dealing with, usually in a challenging or difficult manner. It implies that someone or something is faced with an obstacle, problem, or opposing force that requires effort, determination, or skill to overcome or manage.
In a literal sense, it can refer to physical confrontations, competitions, or battles where individuals or teams strive to outdo or defeat one another. For example, athletes contending with their opponents on a sports field or soldiers contending with the enemy on a battlefield.
Metaphorically, contends with suggests grappling with hardships, difficulties, or adversities, either internal or external. This can encompass a wide range of situations, such as a person contending with personal demons or emotional turmoil, an organization contending with financial setbacks or competition, or a society contending with social issues or political tensions.
The phrase implies a sense of active participation, suggesting that the individual or entity is actively engaged in the process of managing, confronting, or resolving the challenges they face. It conveys the idea that one is not simply a passive recipient of circumstances but rather actively struggling, striving, or dealing with obstacles head-on.
Overall, contending with implies a dynamic and proactive approach to facing and resolving challenges, highlighting the importance of effort, persistence, and skill in overcoming difficulties.
The word "contends with" consists of two components: "contends" and "with".
1. Contends: The word "contend" originates from the Latin word "contendere", which means "to strive" or "to compete". The English word "contend" has been in use since the 15th century and has retained its original meaning of engaging in a struggle, argument, or competition.
2. With: The word "with" is a preposition that can denote various meanings, such as indicating accompaniment, association, or opposition. It traces its origins back to Old English, where it was spelled as "wið" or "wīth".
When combined, "contends with" suggests an individual or entity engaged in a struggle or competition with something or someone else. It implies opposition, confrontation, or striving against a particular force, opinion, obstacle, or situation.