Translation guide
The English verb "contend" has several distinct meanings: to argue or assert, to compete or struggle, and to deal with difficulties. This guide breaks down these meanings and provides natural Japanese equivalents for each.
To state or argue that something is true, often in a debate or formal context.
The most common and neutral way to say "contend" in the sense of asserting an opinion or claim. Used in both spoken and written contexts.
彼は自分の無実を主張した。
He contended that he was innocent.
To compete for something, such as a prize, position, or victory, often against opponents.
To have to deal with a difficult situation or problem.
To deal with or cope with a problem. Neutral and widely used.
私たちは多くの問題に対処しなければならない。
We have to contend with many problems.
主張する is a neutral assertion, while 言い張る implies stubbornness or insistence, often in the face of opposition. Use 主張する for formal arguments and 言い張る for personal disputes.
彼は会議で自分の意見を主張した。
He asserted his opinion at the meeting.
彼は自分が正しいと言い張って聞かなかった。
He stubbornly contended that he was right and wouldn't listen.
English often uses "contend with" for dealing with difficulties. In Japanese, direct translation like 〜と争う is unnatural. Use 対処する, 取り組む, or 苦労する depending on the nuance.
Experts contend that this policy will lead to economic growth.
To argue or discuss a point, often in a more analytical or academic manner. Slightly more formal than 主張する.
著者はこの章で、教育の重要性について論じている。
The author contends in this chapter that education is important.
To insist or stubbornly maintain a point, often with a nuance of persistence. Can be used in everyday conversation.
Can sound stubborn or argumentative; use carefully in formal settings.
彼は自分が正しいと言い張った。
He contended that he was right.
To argue forcefully or emphasize a point strongly. Used in formal speeches or writing.
彼は会議で改革の必要性を力説した。
He contended strongly for the need for reform at the meeting.
To compete or vie for something. Commonly used in sports, business, and other competitive contexts.
多くの選手が金メダルを競っている。
Many athletes are contending for the gold medal.
二つの会社が市場シェアを競っている。
Two companies are contending for market share.
To contend or fight for something, often with a stronger sense of rivalry or conflict. Can be used in both literal and figurative struggles.
候補者たちが大統領の座を争っている。
The candidates are contending for the presidency.
A pattern meaning "to contend for (something)". Emphasizes what is at stake.
彼らは優勝をかけて争っている。
They are contending for the championship.
To fight or battle, used when the competition is intense or metaphorical. Can imply a struggle against difficulties.
This word can also mean physical combat; context is important.
彼は病気と長い間戦っている。
He has been contending with illness for a long time.
To tackle or grapple with an issue, often with a proactive nuance.
政府は環境問題に真剣に取り組んでいる。
The government is contending with environmental issues seriously.
To struggle or have a hard time with something. Emphasizes the difficulty.
彼は借金の返済に苦労している。
He is contending with debt repayment.