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contentious

English → EnglishformalInstant · from the shared dictionary
Illustration of "contentious": Contentious describes something that is likely to cause an argument or a disagreement. Imagine a top

What does "contentious" mean?

Contentious describes something that is likely to cause an argument or a disagreement. Imagine a topic or a person that acts like a magnet for conflict, constantly stirring up debate or discord whenever they are brought into a conversation. You will typically encounter this word in formal writing or journalism when discussing politics, social issues, or legal matters. It is a useful way to label a subject as "hot-button" or "divisive" without necessarily taking a side yourself.

"contentious" in conversation

Discussing a work meeting

We should probably avoid the budget cuts topic today.

We should probably avoid the budget cuts topic today.

Agreed, that’s a very contentious issue for the team.

Agreed, that’s a very contentious issue for the team.

Used to describe a topic likely to cause friction.

Debating a movie

What did you think of the ending?

What did you think of the ending?

It’s a contentious choice—half the audience loves it, the other half hates it.

It’s a contentious choice—half the audience loves it, the other half hates it.

Used to highlight a polarizing creative decision.

"contentious" in a sentence

  1. The new tax law is a contentious issue.

    The new tax law is a contentious issue.

  2. They had a contentious debate regarding the future of the company.

    They had a contentious debate regarding the future of the company.

  3. His contentious remarks about climate change alienated many of his colleagues.

    His contentious remarks about climate change alienated many of his colleagues.

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