Find Synonyms

contend Synonyms

Another word for contend

Choosing another word for contend depends on context, so the 16 synonyms and similar words below are separated across 3 exact definitions and ranked by match strength.
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• verb (Context 1)

To struggle or work hard to overcome a difficulty, obstacle, or challenging situation (usually followed by 'with').

Usage Example

"Rescue teams had to grapple with freezing temperatures and heavy snowfall while searching for the hikers."

Strongest
grapple
Strong
struggle
cope
wrestle
deal with

• verb (Context 2)

To assert or maintain a position earnestly in an argument or debate.

Usage Example

"The defense attorney contended that the key witness's testimony was unreliable."

Strongest
assert
maintain
Strong
argue
claim
insist
allege

• verb (Context 3)

To engage in a competition or campaign in order to win a prize, title, or position of power.

Usage Example

"Three experienced candidates are contending for the senate seat in this year's election."

Strongest
compete
vie
Strong
contest
strive
rival

Opposites of contend

The opposite of contend shifts depending on context. Common opposites include:

deny
disclaim
surrender
forfeit
withdraw
drop out
succumb
give up
See all opposites of contend

• Nearby Words

contemptibly
contemptuous
contemptuously
contend
contender
content
contented

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Synonyms for Contend. In Wordmom Thesaurus. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/synonyms/contend
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