contend

verb5

1. •
   To be in opposition; to contest; to dispute; to vie; to quarrel; to fight.

   • The Lord said unto me, Distress not the Moabites, neither contend with them in battle. — 1611
2. •
   To believe (something is reasonable) and argue (for it); to advocate.

   • In this paper the author contends that no useful results can be obtained if this method is used.
3. •
   To try to cope with a difficulty or problem.
4. •
   To struggle or exert oneself to obtain or retain possession of, or to defend.

   • 17th century, John Dryden, Epistle III to the Lady Castlemain You sit above, and see vain men below / Contend for what you only can bestow.
5. •
   To be in debate; to engage in discussion; to dispute; to argue.

   • these simple ideas are far from those innate principles which some contend for — 1689