Contender
/kənˈtɛndər/
nounB2
Definition
A contender is someone who takes part in a competition, race, or fight and has a real possibility to win. This word is often used in sports, contests, or any situation where people compete to be the best.
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⚡ See It in Action
A person or team competing to win a contest or competition
- •She is a strong contender for the tennis championship this year.
- •The new player quickly became a serious contender in the tournament.
- •Many contenders are trying to qualify for the final race.
Someone who has a chance to achieve or get something important
- •He is a contender for the job because of his experience.
- •The movie is a contender for several awards this season.
🧲 Make It Stick
- ✓Think of 'contender' like 'player,' but a player who is strong and can win, not just anyone playing.
- ✓Picture athletes running in a race, and the fastest runners are the contenders trying hard to finish first.
- ✓It's the feeling of hope and excitement when you believe you can win a prize or be the best.
- ✓Sounds like 'con-TEN-der' → imagine someone who 'tends' (tries) to be 'con'nected to winning.
- ✓Think of a story about a boxer who trains hard to become a contender for the championship.
- ✓NOT like 'participant' (just someone who joins), a contender is someone with a real chance to succeed.
- ✓NOT like 'winner' (already won), a contender is still trying to become the winner.
🔄 Try Other Words
- •Challenger: someone who tries to win against the current winner (Use when the person wants to replace the champion)
- •Candidate: a person who is considered for a position or prize (Use when talking about jobs or awards, less about sports)
- •Participant: someone who takes part in an event (Use when not focusing on chances to win)
🔍 Unboxing
- •Word parts: from Latin 'con-' (together, with) + 'tendere' (to stretch, strive)
- •Etymology: Comes from Latin 'contendere,' meaning to strive or fight together with others
- •Historical development: Used since the 1600s to describe people competing or fighting for something
- •Modern usage: Commonly used in sports, competitions, and situations where people have a chance to win or succeed
💭 Reflect & Connect
•What qualities make someone a strong contender in a competition or life situation?
•Can someone be a contender without winning? How does that affect their motivation?
Fill in the blanks with the correct word:
1.A contender usually trains ___ to improve their chances of winning the competition.
2.When many contenders enter a race, the competition becomes ___ and more difficult.
3.Unlike a participant, a contender is someone who has a real ___ to win.
4.The boxer became a contender after defeating several ___ opponents.
5.In awards shows, a contender is often someone who is ___ for a prize or honor.
6.A contender must stay focused and ___ challenges to succeed.
7.If a person is not serious about winning, they are not considered a true ___.