What is contest? Pronunciation and usage in English

contest means . Learn how to pronounce and use contest through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of contest

contestnoun

/ˈkɒntɛst/
Definition & pronunciation of contest

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "contest" in English. Here's a guide:

1. Syllables:

The word "contest" is typically pronounced in two syllables:

  • con - est

2. Sounds:

  • con: This part sounds like "cone" – short "o" sound, followed by "n" (as in "now").
  • est: This part sounds like "est" as in "test" or "best". The "e" is a short "e" sound.

3. Putting it together:

Say it smoothly, blending the two sounds together. It's a quick, clipped pronunciation.

4. IPA (International Phonetic Alphabet) - for a very precise guide:

/kənˈtest/

  • k - as in "cat"
  • ən - as in "sun" (short "u" sound)
  • ˈtest - The stress is on the second syllable. The 't' is slightly emphasized. The 'e' is a short 'e' sound.

Tips for Pronunciation:

  • Don't over-emphasize the "t": It's a quick tap of the tongue.
  • Keep it quick: It’s a short, punchy word.

Resources for Hearing It:

  • Google Search: Simply type "how to pronounce contest" into Google, and you’ll find audio clips.
  • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/contest/ - (Forvo is a website with pronunciations by native speakers)

Would you like me to:

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  • Give you some example sentences using "contest"?

Usage and examples with the word contest in English

Let's break down how to use the word "contest" in English. It has several different meanings and uses, so it's important to understand the context.

1. As a Noun (the thing itself):

  • A competition: This is the most common meaning. It refers to an event or activity where people compete against each other.

    • Example: "We're entering a contest for the best short story."
    • Example: "The annual baking contest draws thousands of entries."
    • Example: "They're running a raffle as part of the fundraising contest."

  • A dispute or struggle: This meaning refers to a disagreement or battle, often over a principle or idea. It's a more formal use.

    • Example: "The contest over the new law led to heated debates."
    • Example: “He faced a fierce contest for the leadership position."

2. As a Verb (to participate in a competition):

  • To take part in a competition: This is the primary way to use "contest" as a verb.

    • Example: "I’m going to contest the spelling bee."
    • Example: “She decided to contest the election results.”

  • To challenge or oppose (formally): This meaning is less common and usually in a legal or official setting. It means to formally challenge a decision or action, often in court.

    • Example: “The lawyer contested the validity of the will.” (meaning he challenged it legally)

Here's a breakdown of different contexts and how "contest" fits in:

  • Marketing & Prizes: “A photo contest with a grand prize of a vacation.”
  • Sports: “The Olympic Games are a huge contest of athletic skill.”
  • Academic: “Students contest their grades if they believe they were unfairly marked.”
  • Politics: “The mayoral contest was very close.”
  • Legal: "The defendant contested the prosecution’s evidence." (challenging the evidence formally)

Tips for Using "Contest" Effectively:

  • Consider the context: Is it about a fun competition, a serious disagreement, or a formal challenge?
  • Synonyms: Depending on the context, you might use words like: competition, challenge, rivalry, struggle, dispute.

Resources for More Information:

Would you like me to:

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  • Explain the difference between "contest" and similar words (like "competition")?
  • Help you craft a sentence using "contest"?

Synonyms for the word contest

Idioms of the word contest

be no contest
used to say that one side in a competition is so much stronger or better than the other that it is sure to win easily

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