This work contends
Academic essay writing expression
Use this phrase to introduce your main thesis in formal essays to sound authoritative and professional.
En 15 secondes
- Used to introduce a main argument in formal academic writing.
- Always followed by 'that' and a specific claim or theory.
- Signals authority, confidence, and a structured logical approach.
Signification
This is a very formal way to introduce the main argument of an essay or research paper. It tells the reader that the writing they are about to read has a specific opinion or theory it wants to prove.
Exemples clés
3 sur 6Writing a university history essay
This work contends that the industrial revolution was driven by textile innovations.
This essay argues that...
Texting a friend about a movie debate
This work (my text) contends that the sequel was better than the original.
I'm arguing that...
A business strategy meeting
This work contends that we should pivot to a digital-first model by 2025.
This report argues that...
Contexte culturel
The phrase stems from the Latin 'contendere,' which means to stretch or strive. In Western academia, knowledge is often built through debate, so the word 'contend' suggests that the author is actively participating in a scholarly 'fight' or discussion to prove their point.
The 'That' Rule
Always follow this phrase with `that`. It makes your sentence flow perfectly into your argument.
Don't State the Obvious
Don't use `contends` for facts like `the sun is hot`. Use it for things people might disagree with!
En 15 secondes
- Used to introduce a main argument in formal academic writing.
- Always followed by 'that' and a specific claim or theory.
- Signals authority, confidence, and a structured logical approach.
What It Means
Imagine you are standing in a courtroom. You are the lawyer for your own ideas. This work contends is how you announce your main point. It is a fancy way of saying "I am going to prove this." It isn't just a guess or a random thought. It is a structured, serious claim that you will back up with evidence. Think of it as the "spine" of your entire essay. It holds everything else together and gives your writing a clear direction.
How To Use It
You usually find this phrase in the first paragraph of an essay. It is the star of your thesis statement. To use it correctly, you must follow it with the word that. For instance, you might write, This work contends that social media changes how we think. Notice how the phrase sets up the big idea? You can also use it in the conclusion. It helps remind the reader what you just proved. Just make sure the thing you are "contending" is actually an opinion, not a basic fact.
When To Use It
This is your best friend during finals week. Use it in university essays, lab reports, or history papers. It is perfect for any situation where you need to sound like an expert. If you are writing a "white paper" for a big company, this phrase fits perfectly. It tells your boss that you have a clear vision. It also works well in formal presentations or academic posters. It gives your work an air of authority that "I think" simply cannot provide.
When NOT To Use It
Please, do not use this in a text message to your crush. It will make you sound like a robot from the 1800s. Avoid it in casual chats, grocery lists, or birthday cards. If you use it while ordering a burger, the waiter will be very confused. This work contends that I need extra pickles is funny, but very weird. Keep it away from social media captions unless you are being sarcastic. It is a formal tool, so keep it in your formal toolbox.
Cultural Background
This phrase is rooted in the long history of Western academic "disputation." Centuries ago, students had to publicly debate their ideas to graduate. They had to "contend" with their peers and professors. This culture of healthy conflict shaped how we write today. We don't just present facts; we argue for a specific interpretation of those facts. Using this phrase connects you to that long line of thinkers and debaters. It shows you respect the "rules" of the intellectual game.
Common Variations
If you get tired of using the same words, try This paper argues. It is slightly more common and just as professional. This study suggests is better if your evidence isn't 100% certain yet. If you want to sound even more formal, try The present study posits. For a shorter version, This essay maintains works well. Each one has a slightly different "flavor," but they all do the same job of introducing your main argument.
Notes d'usage
This is a high-formality expression. It is primarily used in the introduction or conclusion of academic papers to state a thesis.
The 'That' Rule
Always follow this phrase with `that`. It makes your sentence flow perfectly into your argument.
Don't State the Obvious
Don't use `contends` for facts like `the sun is hot`. Use it for things people might disagree with!
The 'Work' Secret
In academia, calling your essay a `work` makes it sound like a permanent piece of art or literature. It's a major confidence boost!
Exemples
6This work contends that the industrial revolution was driven by textile innovations.
This essay argues that...
This is the classic academic use in a thesis statement.
This work (my text) contends that the sequel was better than the original.
I'm arguing that...
Using such formal language in a text is clearly a joke.
This work contends that we should pivot to a digital-first model by 2025.
This report argues that...
Used here to present a formal business proposal.
This work contends that I am actually a very good cook, despite the burnt toast.
I'm claiming that...
A humorous way to talk about one's own life.
This work contends that the service provided was below the agreed standards.
This letter argues that...
Adds a layer of serious, legalistic weight to the complaint.
This work contends that the protagonist's motives were purely selfish.
The book argues that...
Used to analyze a literary text.
Teste-toi
Complete the thesis statement for a formal essay.
This work ___ that urban green spaces significantly improve mental health.
`Contends` is the only academic choice that introduces a formal argument.
Choose the correct connecting word to follow the phrase.
This work contends ___ the current economic model is unsustainable.
The phrase `This work contends` is almost always followed by the conjunction `that`.
🎉 Score : /2
Aides visuelles
Formality Spectrum of Argumentative Phrases
Talking to friends
I think...
Standard emails
I believe that...
Business reports
This paper argues...
Academic journals
This work contends...
Where to use 'This work contends'
University Thesis
Setting your main claim.
Professional White Paper
Proposing a new industry standard.
Academic Journal
Debating existing research.
Sarcastic Text
Arguing about pizza toppings.
Questions fréquentes
10 questionsNo, in this context, work refers to the piece of writing itself, like your essay or research paper.
Yes, it is very effective in formal academic presentations to clearly state your thesis.
They are very similar. Contends sounds slightly more assertive and traditional.
Generally no, unless you are discussing a specific thesis or publication you have written.
It is used in both! It is a standard part of global academic English.
Contends is strong and certain, while suggests is more cautious and open to other ideas.
No, for facts use shows or demonstrates. Use contends for your own interpretation.
You can, but many academic styles prefer the objective feel of This work contends over using I.
Yes, if you are referring to a previous version of your writing, you can say This work contended....
Usually yes, unless the blog is very academic or you are being intentionally dramatic.
Expressions liées
This paper argues
The author posits
This study suggests
It is maintained that
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