Translation guide
The English word 'contingent' has two main uses: as an adjective meaning 'dependent on conditions' and as a noun meaning 'a group of people'. This guide focuses on the adjective sense, which is the more common challenge for learners.
Expressing that something depends on or is conditional upon something else
Used to say that something depends on or is contingent upon something else. Often follows a noun or a verb in dictionary form.
成功は努力次第だ。
Success is contingent on effort.
明日の天気次第で、ピクニックに行くかどうか決める。
Whether we go on a picnic is contingent on tomorrow's weather.
Referring to a group of people representing an organization or country
Do not try to directly translate 'contingent' as a single Japanese word in most contexts. Use the patterns above to express dependency.
Literally 'hangs on', used to express that something is contingent or dependent on something else. Often used with かどうか (whether or not).
成功するかどうかは、努力にかかっている。
Whether we succeed is contingent on our effort.
Means 'depends on' or 'is based on'. Can be used in various forms like によって, により, による.
結果は条件による。
The result is contingent on the conditions.
An adjective meaning 'conditional' or 'contingent'. Often used in formal contexts.
条件付きの承認
contingent approval
A delegation or contingent of representatives. Commonly used for official groups.
日本の代表団が会議に出席した。
The Japanese contingent attended the conference.
A dispatched group or contingent, often used for groups sent on a mission.
医療派遣団が被災地に向かった。
A medical contingent headed to the disaster area.
A group or party of people. More general than 代表団.
観光客の一団がバスから降りてきた。
A contingent of tourists got off the bus.