Meaning & Definition of word "Contingent"
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Contingent
/kənˈtɪn.dʒənt/
noun:
- 1. A group of people representative of a larger group.
- Example: The United States sent a contingent of diplomats to the climate summit.
- 2. A representative group forming part of a larger body.
- Example: A contingent of volunteers arrived at the site to assist with the cleanup.
adjective:
- 1. Subject to chance; dependent on something else.
- Example: The team's success is contingent upon securing adequate funding.
- 2. Occurring or existing only if certain circumstances are the case; conditional.
- Example: Their agreement was contingent on the approval of the board.
Etymology
From Latin 'contingens', meaning 'touching, clinging to'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
contingent upon:
Dependent on something else happening.
contingent workforce:
A labor force composed of contingent workers.
Related Words
conditional:
Subject to conditions.
provisional:
Arranged or existing for the present, possibly to be changed later.
Slang Meanings of contingent
Meaning: A group of friends considered less permanent.
Example Sentence: That party will be a blast; I'm bringing my contingent.