contingent

The word “contingent” means dependent on something else that is uncertain; conditional. In plain terms, either "dependent on something uncertain" (adjective) or "a group sent to represent a larger whole" (noun).

“Contingent” is pronounced kuhn-TIHN-juhnt (/kənˈtɪn.d͡ʒənt/ in IPA).

Here is “contingent” used in a sentence: “Her promotion is contingent on the project's success.”

The opposite of “contingent” — its antonyms — is noncontingent.

Depending on how it is used, “contingent” can be an adjective and a noun.

The word “contingent” comes from Medieval Latin. From Old French contingent, from Medieval Latin contingens, "possible," the present participle of contingere ("to touch, to happen") — com- ("together") + tangere ("to touch").

“Contingent” is an uncommon word in modern English.

“Contingent” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: dependent on something else that is uncertain; conditional.

Contingent and dependent both describe something that relies on another factor, but contingent specifically implies that the outcome is uncertain or conditional, such as a job offer contingent on a background check. Dependent is broader and does not necessarily imply uncertainty.

As an adjective, contingent means dependent on something else that is uncertain, as in funding contingent on approval. As a noun, a contingent refers to a group representing a larger body, such as a contingent of troops or a delegation sent to a conference.

A contingency plan is a backup plan prepared for an event that is contingent, meaning uncertain and dependent on future conditions. Both words share the same root idea that something may or may not happen, so plans are made in case the conditional event occurs.