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as in possibility
something that might happen agencies trying to provide for every contingency in a national emergency

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Synonym Chooser

How does the noun contingency differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of contingency are crisis, emergency, exigency, juncture, pinch, straits, and strait. While all these words mean "a critical or crucial time or state of affairs," contingency implies an emergency or exigency that is regarded as possible but uncertain of occurrence.

contingency plans

In what contexts can crisis take the place of contingency?

The meanings of crisis and contingency largely overlap; however, crisis applies to a juncture whose outcome will make a decisive difference.

a crisis of confidence

When is emergency a more appropriate choice than contingency?

While in some cases nearly identical to contingency, emergency applies to a sudden unforeseen situation requiring prompt action to avoid disaster.

the presence of mind needed to deal with emergencies

When might exigency be a better fit than contingency?

The synonyms exigency and contingency are sometimes interchangeable, but exigency stresses the pressure of restrictions or urgency of demands created by a special situation.

provide for exigencies

When could juncture be used to replace contingency?

The words juncture and contingency can be used in similar contexts, but juncture stresses the significant concurrence or convergence of events.

an important juncture in our country's history

How does the word pinch relate to other synonyms for contingency?

Pinch implies urgency or pressure for action to a less intense degree than exigency or emergency.

come through in a pinch

How are the words strait and straits related as synonyms of contingency?

Strait, now commonly straits, applies to a troublesome situation from which escape is extremely difficult.

in dire straits

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of contingency Washington and Tokyo had formulated a missile deployment plan for a Taiwan contingency, Japan's Kyodo News said. Gordon G. Chang, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 Apr. 2025 Supply chain resilience remains a priority, emphasizing supplier collaboration, demand forecasting and contingency planning rather than structural changes like nearshoring. Arthur Zaczkiewicz, Footwear News, 8 Apr. 2025 The center provides support for mental health struggles and offers resources to cope with an encounter with ICE, like legal consultations and contingency planning. Nanki Kaur, Mercury News, 7 Apr. 2025 Sources with knowledge of the situation, anonymous to protect relationships, say contingency planning has been ongoing for some time and things are in place. Simon Johnson, New York Times, 5 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for contingency
Recent Examples of Synonyms for contingency
Noun
  • Among the possibilities: Right-handers Michael Peterson, recalled from Triple A to take Strider’s roster spot, and Scott Blewett, acquired in a Monday trade from the Baltimore Orioles.
    David O'Brien, New York Times, 22 Apr. 2025
  • Yet there’s the possibility of a final stop along the way — Trakai Historical National Park — which revolves around a majestic 14th-century island castle.
    Joe Yogerst, Forbes.com, 22 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • But these recent examples suggest the provision is no longer serving that purpose.
    Ian Nicholas Quillen, Forbes.com, 26 Apr. 2025
  • Other portions of the executive order are still being litigated, including a provision that withholds federal funds from states that count mail and absentee ballots that are postmarked by Election Day but are received by election officials afterwards.
    Jude Joffe-Block, NPR, 24 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • In the wake of the devastating events of last Sunday's episode of The Last of Us, this week's installment marked a new chapter for Ellie (Bella Ramsey) and the rest of the survivors of the infected horde's attack on Jackson.
    Megan McCluskey, Time, 28 Apr. 2025
  • This type of shoe is perfect for evening or more formal events and goes great with dark jeans or satin finish.
    René Chávez Esparza, Glamour, 27 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • India's import licensing requirements, foreign direct investment caps, and state-run trading monopolies control who can do business and under what terms.
    Garth Friesen, Forbes.com, 27 Apr. 2025
  • President Donald Trump signed an executive order earlier this year establishing new national voter identification requirements.
    Karissa Waddick, USA Today, 26 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • The Browns contingent met with Ward and conducted their private workout two days after his pro day.
    Zac Jackson, New York Times, 11 Apr. 2025
  • Trump's influence and power in Washington today are bolstered by Republicans controlling both houses of Congress, a conservative majority at the U.S. Supreme Court, and a contingent of billionaires, led by Elon Musk, who are more than willing to use their war chests to promote his agenda.
    Raja Krishnamoorthi, MSNBC Newsweek, 9 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • As far as the long-term effects, frequent and heavy alcohol consumption can lead to serious health conditions like liver disease, heart problems, increased cancer risk and damage to the nervous system.
    Greta Cross, USA Today, 20 Apr. 2025
  • The huge wealth gap fueled resentment and demands for better conditions.
    Lauren Frayer, NPR, 19 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Another case involves Venezuelan immigrants seeking hearings to contest their gang membership.
    Bart Jansen, USA Today, 21 Apr. 2025
  • The Form Tank is 40 percent off and makes a strong case for packing light; just add tailored pants and a lightweight jacket for a sleek, simple look.
    Rosie Marder, Travel + Leisure, 20 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • In victory, Trump won the right to shave McMahon’s head, which was a stipulation for the match.
    Mark LaSota, Forbes.com, 16 Apr. 2025
  • Since January, Owens has had multiple matches with severe stipulations, particularly against Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes and Sami Zayn, both of which are some of the best matches of the year so far.
    John W. Dean, MSNBC Newsweek, 5 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Contingency.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/contingency. Accessed 2 May. 2025.

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