Contingent

A 'contingent' is something that is dependent on or conditioned by something else. It implies uncertainty or that something may happen, but is not certain to. It can refer to something that may occur in the future (a possible event or outcome), or to a group of people that come together for a common purpose, often as a specific unit or part of a larger assembly. It can also describe a situation where something is subject to limitations or is provisional in nature.

Contingent meaning with examples

• The contract was contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. This means the agreement would only be finalized if the check came back clean. If the check failed, the deal would not proceed. Therefore, the outcome depended on a specific condition that needed to be fulfilled.
• Our travel plans are contingent on the weather. If it rains, we'll postpone the picnic. We're not committed to go unless the weather is favorable. It is an uncertain event, as the weather can change at any moment. We will not attend the picnic, if the weather doesn't cooperate.
• The company prepared a contingent of employees to staff the new branch. They were ready to be deployed as needed when the branch was open. They formed a specific, organized group for a defined task, ready to be dispatched to a certain location.
• A rescue plan has been developed for the contingent scenarios. The rescue team will perform a specific action based on events. It is an if-then situation. If certain events happen, this plan will be implemented.
• Her acceptance to the program was contingent on achieving a certain GPA. She needed to maintain a minimum GPA to remain in the program, indicating that her place in the program depended on her academic performance.