Translation guide
To compete or struggle in order to win or achieve something. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for vying for a prize, position, title, or opportunity.
Both teams are contending for the championship.
Many candidates contended for the presidency.
Similar to 争う but often implies a more direct, sometimes friendly rivalry. Common in sports and competitions.
The athletes are contending for the gold medal.
Literally 'fight for ~'. Emphasizes the struggle or battle aspect. Used for high-stakes contests.
They are contending for the world champion title.
Expressing that multiple people are trying to get a job, role, or limited opportunity.
Same pattern as above, but used for positions, seats, or opportunities.
Many students are contending for the scholarship.
Adds nuance of 'over' or 'concerning', often used when there is a dispute or competition for something specific.
Means 'to aim for' or 'to go after'. Less confrontational than 争う, often used when someone is trying to get a position or opportunity.
Expressing that someone is fighting or striving for an ideal, right, or abstract concept.
争う (arasou) implies a more serious, sometimes hostile competition, while 競う (kisou) often suggests a sporting or friendly rivalry. 争う can also mean 'to dispute' or 'to quarrel'.
They are disputing over the inheritance.
There is no single Japanese verb that directly translates 'contend for'. Use the patterns above with appropriate nouns. Do not try to use 主張する (shuchō suru, 'to assert') for this meaning.
Several companies are contending for the contract.
He is contending for the position of company president.
The people contended for justice.