The term 'is contingent' can be summarized as 'dependent on something else'. It is a term used to describe a situation in which the outcome is dependent on other factors. For example, a contract may be contingent upon the signing of another contract, or a job offer may be contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. In this context, the crossword solution 'depends' (7 letters) is an appropriate summary of the term 'is contingent'.