contend

/kənˈtɛnd/verb

To struggle or compete in order to win, keep, or defend something.

Example sentences

“Five teams are contending for the last playoff spot.”
“She contended fiercely for the title until the final round.”

Two jobs: to compete ('contending for the title') and to argue ('she contends the data is flawed'). A 'contender' comes only from the first.

Synonyms for contend

compete
vie
fight
struggle

Related words

grappleTo try hard to deal with or understand a difficult problem or situation.contentFeeling satisfied and at ease with what you have.contemptA feeling that someone or something is worthless or beneath respect; scorn.contentiousCausing or full of strong disagreement and argument.contemplateTo think about something carefully and at length, looking at it from every angle.contentmentA quiet feeling of satisfaction with your life or situation.