Contingency

/kənˈtɪn.dʒən.si/

Meaning & Definition

noun

a future event or circumstance that is possible but cannot be predicted with certainty.

The company established a contingency plan in case of unexpected market fluctuations.

a provision for an unforeseen event or circumstance.

They set aside a contingency fund to cover any emergencies that might arise.

an event that may occur but is not certain.

The project includes a contingency for delays related to weather conditions.

the condition of being contingent; dependence on chance or uncertain conditions.

Her acceptance into the program was subject to the contingency of adequate funding.

From Latin 'contingentia', meaning 'a touching, connection'.

contingency plan

A strategy for dealing with possible adverse situations.

contingent upon

Dependent on a condition or event.

plan for contingencies

To prepare for unforeseen events.

contingent

Dependent on something else; conditional.

eventuality

An occurrence or situation that may arise.

provision

The action of providing or supplying something for use.

Backup plan

I always have a contingency just in case.

Plan B

We need to have a contingency ready if this doesn't work out.