no contest
MediumFormal / Legal / Informal (depending on context)
Definition
Meaning
A situation where one side is so superior that there is no real competition; an outcome that is certain without a struggle.
1) In law: a plea in which the defendant does not admit guilt but accepts punishment. 2) In general use: something that is clearly and overwhelmingly decided, with no argument or doubt possible.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
The phrase functions as a predicate adjective or a noun phrase. It originates from boxing/law but is now widely used metaphorically. In legal contexts, 'nolo contendere' is the formal Latin term.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Primarily used in US legal contexts; in UK law, 'no contest' is understood but the formal plea is less common. In general metaphorical use, both varieties use it similarly.
Connotations
In law: implies a pragmatic avoidance of a full trial. In sports/general use: implies total dominance and a lack of meaningful opposition.
Frequency
More frequent in American English, especially in legal and sports journalism.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
It + be + a no contestSubject + plead + no contest (to charge)The match/game + be + a no contestVocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “It wasn't even a contest.”
- “It was all over but the shouting.”
- “A done deal.”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
The merger was a no contest after our rival's financial troubles became public.
Academic
In the debate on climate causality, the scientific evidence makes it a no contest.
Everyday
When it comes to baking cakes, my grandma vs. me is a no contest—she wins every time.
Technical
The defendant entered a plea of no contest to the misdemeanor charge.
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
American English
- He is expected to plead no contest to the lesser charge.
adjective
British English
- The final was a no-contest affair after the star player's injury.
- It was a no-contest decision for the judges.
American English
- The hearing was a no-contest proceeding.
- It was a no-contest match from the first round.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- The game was no contest. Our team was much better.
- The chess match was a no contest; she won in just ten moves.
- Given the incumbent's popularity and funding, the election is shaping up to be a no contest.
- The defendant opted to plead no contest, thereby avoiding a protracted trial without admitting civil liability.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a boxing ring where one fighter doesn't show up – there is NO CONTEST.
Conceptual Metaphor
COMPETITION IS WAR / JUSTICE IS A GAME. A 'no contest' frames a situation as a competition so unbalanced it shouldn't even be fought.
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Не переводите дословно как "нет конкурса" (это 'no competition' в коммерческом смысле).
- В юридическом контексте соответствует 'признание факта без признания вины'.
- В спорте/спорах: 'исход предрешён', 'подавляющее преимущество'.
Common Mistakes
- Using 'no contest' as a verb (e.g., 'He no contested the charge' – incorrect).
- Confusing with 'uncontested' (which is an adjective, e.g., 'an uncontested divorce').
- Omitting the article 'a' (e.g., 'It was no contest' is acceptable informally, but 'It was a no contest' is standard).
Practice
Quiz
What does 'plead no contest' mean in a US court?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Legally, a 'no contest' plea results in a conviction like a guilty plea, but it cannot be used as an admission of guilt in a related civil lawsuit.
Yes. It is commonly used metaphorically in business, politics, debates, or any situation where one option/party is overwhelmingly superior.
They are close synonyms. 'Walkover' originates from horse racing (a walkover victory) and strongly implies no effort was required. 'No contest' can imply the competition itself was invalid or pointless due to the mismatch.
It is most commonly used as a predicate noun after 'be' or 'prove' (e.g., 'It was a no contest'). In law, it follows the verb 'plead' (e.g., 'He pleaded no contest').