Definition

1. Adjective:

   • Dependent on something else; conditional: "Contingent" describes something that is true or will happen only if certain other circumstances or conditions are met.
   • Possible but not certain; subject to chance: It can describe an event or outcome that may or may not occur, often due to unpredictable factors.

2. Noun:

   • A group of people representing a larger organization or body: A "contingent" is a distinct group, often part of a larger assembly, sent for a specific purpose.
   • A military unit, typically part of a larger force: In military contexts, it refers to a body of troops contributed to a larger operation or force.

Examples of Usage

• Adjective:
  • Our travel plans are contingent on getting the necessary visas.
  • The company set aside a contingent fund for unexpected repairs.
• Noun:
  • A large contingent of fans traveled to support the team.
  • The United Nations force included a contingent from Canada.

Advanced Usage

• "Contingent on/upon": This is the standard prepositional phrase used with the adjective form to show dependency.
  • The merger is contingent upon shareholder approval.
• "To be contingent": Used to describe a state of being conditional or uncertain.
  • The success of the mission is contingent on many variables.

Variants and Related Words

• Contingency (n): A future event or circumstance that is possible but cannot be predicted with certainty; a provision for such an event.
  • We have a contingency plan in case of bad weather.
• Contingently (adv): In a contingent manner; dependently.
  • The contract was awarded contingently.

Synonyms

• Adjective: Conditional, dependent, subject to, provisional, uncertain, possible.
• Noun: Delegation, group, detachment, unit, division, section.

Related Phrases

• "Contingent worker": An employee who is hired on a temporary or conditional basis, not as a permanent staff member.
  • The project team was staffed mainly by contingent workers.
• "Contingent beneficiary": (In law or finance) A person who inherits assets or benefits only if a primary beneficiary is unable to do so.
  • He named his brother as the contingent beneficiary of his life insurance policy.

Adjective

1. uncertain because of uncontrollable circumstances
   • the results of confession were not contingent, they were certain- George Eliot
2. determined by conditions or circumstances that follow
   • arms sales contingent on the approval of congress
3. possible but not certain to occur
   • they had to plan for contingent expenses

Noun

1. a temporary military unit
   • the peacekeeping force includes one British contingent
2. a gathering of persons representative of some larger group
   • each nation sent a contingent of athletes to the Olympics