| 释义 |
con·tin·gen·cy
\kənˈtinjənsē, -si\ noun
(-es)
Etymology: Middle French or Medieval Latin; Middle French contingence, from Medieval Latin contingentia, from Late Latin, possibility, from Latin contingent-, contingens (present participle of contingere to touch on all sides, to happen) + -ia
1. : the quality or state of being contingent: as
a.
(1) : the condition that something may or may not occur : the condition of being subject to chance
(2) : the happening of anything by chance : fortuitousness
b.
(1) : close connection or relationship especially of a causal nature
(2) obsolete : contact, contingence
2. [contingence + -y]
a. : something that is contingent : an event or condition occurring by chance and without intent, viewed as possible or eventually probable, or depending on uncertain occurrences or coincidences
< the remarkable position of the queen rendering her death a most important contingency — Henry Hallam >
b. : a possible future event or condition or an unforeseen occurrence that may necessitate special measures
< a reserve fund for contingencies >
c. : something liable to happen as a chance feature or accompaniment of something else
< contingencies of marriage >
Synonyms: see juncture |