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contingency

contingency

Noun

pl: contingencies

This term describes a state of precariousness where an outcome depends on an unknown variable. It carries a pragmatic, often professional tone, commonly appearing in legal, financial, or strategic planning contexts to describe the "what if" scenarios of a project.

When used in budgeting, it refers specifically to a financial buffer. Unlike a general "savings" account, a contingency fund is earmarked for specific, unplanned disruptions, emphasizing a proactive approach to risk management.

Meanings

Nouncontingency

A future event or circumstance that is possible but cannot be predicted with certainty.

We have a contingency plan in place in case the primary strategy fails.

Nouncontingency

A provision of money set aside to cover any unexpected costs or expenses.

The project budget includes a ten percent contingency for unforeseen materials.

Examples

Plan for every contingency.

It is a contingency.

Consider the contingency.

We must prepare for any contingency.

The contingency was not expected.

They had a contingency for rain.

The detective considered every possible contingency.

Detective

We need a contingency for the flight.

Travel

The school has a contingency for snow.

School Life

The treaty accounts for every political contingency.

History

Our firm maintains a strict financial contingency.

Business

I apologize for failing to plan this contingency.

Apology

Related Words

possibility eventuality chance incident occurrence certainty inevitability necessity backup plan risk provision emergency contingent

Last Updated: May 2026•Report an Error