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Contested Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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contested

[kษ™nหˆtษ›stษชd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

legal term

Disputed; challenged; subject to disagreement or debate.

Synonyms

challenged, disagreed, disputed.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
contested

Typically used in scenarios involving competition or disputes over ownership, results, or rights. It often refers to legal or political contexts.

  • The election results were hotly contested.
  • The two companies contested the patent rights in court.
disputed

Involves a strong disagreement or argument, often implying a significant conflict or controversy. It is more formal and serious and frequently used in legal, academic, or political contexts.

  • The land ownership has been disputed for decades.
  • Her findings were disputed by several experts.
challenged

Used when questioning the validity or truth of something, often in a formal or structured manner. It implies a demand for justification or explanation.

  • She challenged his authority during the meeting.
  • The scientist challenged the old theories with new evidence.
disagreed

Refers to having a different opinion or perspective. It is often used in everyday conversation and tends to be less formal and less intense than 'disputed' or 'challenged'.

  • They disagreed about which movie to watch.
  • The scientists disagreed on the interpretation of the data.

Examples of usage

  • The will was contested by multiple family members.
  • The election results were contested by the losing candidate.
Context #2 | Verb

legal term

To engage in a legal challenge or dispute.

Synonyms

challenge, dispute, oppose.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
contested

Use when referring to something that is argued about, especially in legal or formal contexts. It indicates an ongoing disagreement or competition over a specific matter.

  • The election results were highly contested.
  • The two companies contested the ownership of the patent.
challenge

Use when questioning or testing someone's ability, right, or statement. Often used in settings of competition or personal growth.

  • She decided to challenge the new regulation in court.
  • His friends encouraged him to challenge his own limits.
dispute

Use when describing a serious argument or disagreement, often formal, between parties. It can refer to legal matters, business conflicts, or personal relationships.

  • The neighbors are in a dispute over the property line.
  • The contract dispute went to arbitration.
oppose

Use when expressing resistance or objection to someone's ideas, actions, or policies. It reflects a stance of active disagreement or refusal.

  • Many citizens oppose the new tax law.
  • He opposed their plans for a new highway through the forest.

Examples of usage

  • The two parties contested the ownership of the land in court.
  • She contested the will, claiming it was forged.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Politics

  • During elections, some seats are highly contested, meaning several candidates try hard to win them.
  • Contested political issues can lead to debates and protests, as people express their differing opinions.
  • Certain historical events, like the American Civil Rights Movement, were contested in terms of social justice and equality.

Sports

  • In sports, matches can be contested over questionable plays or referee decisions, leading to excitement and disputes.
  • Rivalries often create a contested atmosphere during games, where fans root passionately for their teams.
  • Championship titles can also be contested, with multiple teams or athletes competing fiercely for victory.

Science

  • In scientific research, theories or findings can be contested by different studies or experts in the field.
  • The validity of climate change evidence has been contested by various groups, sparking widespread debate.
  • Contested topics in science often lead to further investigation, pushing the boundaries of knowledge.

Culture

  • Artistic interpretations can be contested, with viewers having strong and differing opinions on what they mean.
  • Certain historical narratives are contested as new evidence emerges, challenging traditional views and promoting dialogue.
  • Cultural practices or traditions may be contested within communities, especially when generations have different viewpoints.

Origin of 'contested'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the Latin word 'contestari,' which means to call to witness or to argue.
  • It evolved through Middle French 'contester' before entering the English language in the 14th century.
  • Its earliest usage related mostly to legal disputes and has since broadened to cover various competitive scenarios.

The word "contested" originated from the Latin word "contestari", which meant to call to witness or to bring a legal action. Over time, it evolved to mean to challenge or dispute. In legal terms, "contested" is often used to describe situations where there is a disagreement or dispute that needs to be resolved through legal means.

See also: contest, contestant, contestants, incontestable, incontestably, uncontested.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #7,981 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.