contingent
Dependent on something else happening or being true
Examples
In a meeting
“The job offer is contingent upon passing the background check.”
Over coffee
“Going to the beach is contingent on the weather improving.”
Why this word
dependent
Contingent emphasizes conditional relationship to uncertain events, while dependent is broader and less specific about conditions
conditional
Contingent stresses dependence on uncertain factors, while conditional simply indicates any condition exists
uncertain
Contingent specifies dependence on other factors, while uncertain only describes lack of certainty
Usage tip
Use when one thing can only happen if certain conditions are met first
Etymology
Latin: contingere (to touch, happen)
Get a new word every morning
One precise word per day. Under 60 seconds to read. Free forever.
Related words
caveat
A warning or limitation to consider
conducive
Making a certain situation or outcome likely or possible; favorable to.
broach
To bring up or introduce a topic for discussion
streamline
To make a process or system more efficient by simplifying or eliminating unnecessary steps.
delegate
To assign a task or responsibility to someone else.
validate
To confirm that something is correct, sound, or meets requirements.