contingent

Everyday

1. (adjective, formal) Depending on something else happening first: «The trip is contingent on good weather.» tree →
2. (noun) A group of people who belong to a larger group, sent or gathered together: «a contingent of soldiers», «the Irish contingent». tree →
3. (adjective, formal) Possible but not certain; that may or may not happen. tree →

In the lessons

A formal exam word. In maths word problems or rules, «contingent on» means «only if»: the prize is contingent on getting all answers right. In news and sport, «a contingent» is a group: «the school's contingent at the parade». Phrases: «contingent on», «contingent upon», «a large contingent of».

Examples

• Our trip to the zoo is contingent on everyone bringing a signed form. tree →
• Your pocket money is contingent upon tidying your room. tree →
• A contingent of firefighters marched in the parade. tree →
• The Scottish contingent cheered loudest at the games. tree →
• His place in the team is contingent on passing his fitness test. tree →
• A small contingent of parents stayed to help clear up. tree →

Note

Adjective use goes with «on» or «upon». Noun is countable. Related: «contingency» (a possible future event; «a contingency plan» = a backup plan). Formal; in speech say «depends on» or «a group of». Logic: «A is contingent on B» means no B, no A.