1. a possible future event or circumstance that is possible but cannot be predicted with certainty
2. a provision for an unforeseen event or circumstance; an emergency plan or reserve
3. the quality of being dependent on chance or uncertain conditions
Usage: formal

Examples

• The company has a contingency plan in case of power outages.
• We set aside money as a contingency for unexpected expenses.
• The success of the project depends on several contingencies.
• Emergency services must prepare for every contingency.
• The contract includes provisions for various contingencies.
• They discussed contingencies that might affect the timeline.
• The contingency fund helped them through the crisis.