What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
assert
Example
She asserts that she is innocent of the crime. [assert: verb]
Example
The speaker confidently asserted that climate change is a pressing issue. [asserted: past tense]
contend
Example
He contends that technology has a negative impact on social interactions. [contend: verb]
Example
The author contended that the government's policies were ineffective. [contended: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Assert is more commonly used than contend in everyday language. Assert is versatile and can be used in various contexts, while contend is less common and tends to be used in more specialized or formal situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between assert and contend?
While assert is typically associated with a formal and professional tone, contend is often used in academic or intellectual discussions, making it more formal as well.
