contingent
When used as an adjective, "contingent" is almost always followed by the preposition "on" or "upon". It is most commonly found in formal contexts, such as legal contracts or business agreements. As a noun, it refers to a specific subgroup. For example, you might talk about a "national contingent" at an international event. In this sense, it is a countable noun.
💬Casual Conversation
🎬Tuesday afternoon, Sarah is staring at a blank Photoshop canvas while David is in a 'synergy' meeting.
David Smith
Is the rebranding live? My bonus is contingent on that launch.
Sarah
Still waiting on client sign-off. Don't hold your breath.
💡
David uses 'contingent' to express that his financial reward depends entirely on the project launch. Sarah responds with the idiom 'don't hold your breath', implying that the sign-off is unlikely to happen soon, reflecting her exhaustion and cynicism toward the process.
Meanings
adjective
Subject to chance; dependent on certain conditions being met.
"The sale of the house is contingent upon the buyer securing a mortgage."