Reading Theme:
Contingent: Definition, Examples, and Usage (2 meaning)
Meaning 1：dependent on (contingent)
contingent
/kənˈtɪndʒənt/
adj.
Depending on something else that might or might not happen; not certain.
dependent on
➕
/dɪˈpendənt ɒn/
adj.
Something that is contingent depends on a future event or circumstance that may or may not happen.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From Latin 'contingere' (to touch), meaning 'depending on conditions'.
💡 Mnemonic
Think 'contingent' as 'contact tent' — entering depends on making contact first.
📖 Example
Our plan to hold the garden party is contingent on the weather forecast being sunny.
The success of our garden party depends on sunny weather, which is uncertain.
🔗 Collocations
contingent on – depending on
contingent plan – alternative plan if conditions change
contingent liability – potential debt that depends on future events
🔄 Synonyms
conditional (adj.) – subject to one or more conditions being met
dependent (adj.) – relying on someone or something else for support
uncertain (adj.) – not able to be relied on; not known or definite
🚫 Antonyms
unconditional (adj.) – not subject to any conditions
certain (adj.) – known for sure; established beyond doubt
independent (adj.) – not influenced or controlled by others
🌱 Derivatives
contingency (n.) – a future event or circumstance that is possible but cannot be predicted with certainty
contingently (adv.) – in a way that depends on something else
📖 Cultural Story
Contingent traces to Latin 'contingere' (to happen). In law and business, it describes conditions that must be met for an agreement to be valid, e.g., a job offer contingent on background check.
Meaning 2：delegation (contingent)
contingent
/kənˈtɪndʒənt/
adj.
A group of people representing an organization or country, often sent to an event.
delegation
➕
/ˌdɛl.ɪˈɡeɪ.ʃən/
adj.
A group of people who are part of a larger organization or country, often sent to represent it at an event.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
The university sent a large contingent of students and professors to the international conference.
The university sent a large group representing students and faculty to the international conference.
🔗 Collocations
contingent of troops – a group of soldiers sent as part of a military operation
large contingent – a sizable group representing an organization
official contingent – a group officially appointed to represent a body
🔄 Synonyms
delegation (n.) – a group of people appointed to represent others
group (n.) – a number of people gathered together
party (n.) – a group of people taking part in a particular activity
Wordbook
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