Translation guide
The English word "contending" can express several related ideas: competing for something, arguing a position, or struggling against difficulties. This guide helps you choose the right Japanese expression for each meaning.
To take part in a competition or strive to win something, such as a title, position, or victory.
General verb for competing or vying with others for something. Often used in sports, business, or any competitive situation.
彼らは優勝を競っている。
They are contending for the championship.
To contend or struggle for something, often with a stronger sense of conflict or dispute. Can imply a more intense rivalry.
両チームが優勝を争っている。
Both teams are contending for the title.
Pattern meaning 'to contend for something'. The object is marked with を.
金メダルをかけて争う。
Contend for the gold medal.
To compete closely, jostle for position. Often used in sports or auctions. Implies a tight, back-and-forth contest.
選手たちが先頭を競り合っている。
The athletes are contending for the lead.
To state or argue that something is true, especially in a debate or discussion.
To assert, claim, or contend (that something is the case). The most direct equivalent for stating an opinion firmly.
彼は自分が無実だと主張している。
He contends that he is innocent.
To argue, discuss, or contend a point. More formal and often used in academic or logical contexts.
著者はこの理論が間違っていると論じている。
The author contends that this theory is wrong.
Pattern for 'contend that...'. The quoted statement is followed by と.
専門家は温暖化が加速していると主張する。
Experts contend that global warming is accelerating.
To have to deal with a difficult situation or opponent.
To struggle, fight hard, contend with difficulties. Emphasizes the effort against adversity.
彼は病気と苦闘している。
He is contending with illness.
To face, confront, or contend with a challenge. Implies a proactive stance against something.
困難に立ち向かう。
Contend with difficulties.
To fight or contend with something (e.g., disease, injustice). The opponent is marked with と.
彼は長年、貧困と闘ってきた。
He has been contending with poverty for years.
English often uses 'contend with' to mean 'deal with a problem'. Direct translations like contend + と may not sound natural. Use 苦闘する, 立ち向かう, or 対処する depending on the nuance.
Both mean 'compete', but 競う focuses on the act of competing (often in a friendly or sportsmanlike way), while 争う implies a stronger conflict or dispute, sometimes with negative connotations.
数人の候補者がその地位を争っている。
Several candidates are contending for the position.
弁護士は証拠が不十分だと主張した。
The lawyer contended that the evidence was insufficient.
彼女は仕事で多くの問題と闘わなければならない。
She has to contend with many problems at work.