English Reference
verb · noun

contesting

v. · n.
US /kənˈtɛstɪŋ/ UK /kəntˈɛstɪŋ/ con·test·ing

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate Formal Law

    v.disagreeing with a decision or a law and trying to change it.

    v.challenging or disputing the validity or accuracy of a statement, decision, or legal document. Transitive, taking the disputed item as a direct object.

    Simple

    The family is contesting the will because they believe it was signed under pressure.

    In context

    The legal team spent months contesting the evidence presented by the prosecution, arguing that the data had been improperly collected.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate Sport

    v.taking part in a competition or election to try and win.

    v.competing for or striving to win a position, prize, or territory.

    Simple

    Several candidates are contesting the seat in the upcoming local election.

    In context

    Both teams were fiercely contesting every inch of the field, knowing that a single mistake could end their championship hopes.

  3. 03 C1 Advanced FormalAcademic

    n.the act of arguing against something or challenging it.

    n.the action of disputing or challenging a claim, decision, or result. Functions as a gerund or verbal noun.

    Simple

    His contesting of the results led to a full recount of the votes.

    In context

    The persistent contesting of established scientific theories is a fundamental part of the peer-review process.

    disputationchallenge

Bouaddi completed 54 of his 55 passes, while he also topped the metrics across players of both sides for most dribbles (4), most times possession won (7) and contesting more duels (13).

BBC News· 8 Sept 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Occasional
Updated