Friday, August 28, 2015

contingent, contingency

Contingent or contingent describes something possible or uncertain; depending on a condition--
The building plans are contingent upon the approval of the zoning board.
Our plans are contingent upon the weather, so let's have a backup plan ready.

Contingent is also a noun ( thing or idea ), meaning a quota of troops, or a  group making part of a greater assembly, as by lot or portion--
The duke sent a contingent of infantry to aid his brother.
We'll be part of the California contingent at the national convention.

Contingency or contingency is a noun ( thing or idea ), meaning dependence on chance or on a certain condition; uncertainty--
We have prepared for every contingency, including earthquake and flood.
It's best to be prepared for any contingency.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"We have to be ready for any contingency, and this trip is contingent on our finances, on our legal status, and on the goodwill of any people we encounter."

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