a brief contention

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a brief contention" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a short argument or assertion made in a discussion or debate. Example: "In her article, she presents a brief contention that climate change is primarily driven by human activity."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

With two imprints left in contention, there was a brief, medium-fierce auction in which House B made the clinching bid.

The Guardian - Books

Here's a brief chunk adopted from The Case for Contention: Teaching Controversial Issues in American Schools, as featured in the Atlantic.

University of Chicago

One regular source of contention between Israel and the Vatican is a brief photo caption at Yad Vashem, Israel's Holocaust memorial in Jerusalem, which challenges Pius' wartime actions.

The Guardian

Mr. Boyland's lawyers presented a brief defense case, including two witnesses and exhibits to support their contention that Mr. Boyland's deal had not been a secret, and that he had sought funding on behalf of many nonprofit organizations.

The New York Times

According to dictionary.com (//www.dictionary.com), the definition of a "brief" (in relation to law) is "a formal outline listing main contentions along with supporting evidence and documentation".

The New York Times

The central point of contention yesterday was Officer O'Leary's account of what happened during a brief chaotic struggle between Mr. Busch and the officers at the stairway to his basement apartment.

The New York Times

In a brief follow-up to an earlier, video-recorded interview, Corbin told me that he sees no contradiction between his contention that Filner deserves due process and his efforts to recall the mayor.

Huffington Post

A brief reference to some of the cases dealing with the power of a state to classify will make the error of the contention apparent.

Cornell University

(A brief staring contest).

The New Yorker

A brief summary?

The New Yorker

So, a brief lesson.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a brief contention" to introduce a summarized argument or point, especially when setting the stage for a more detailed discussion. It helps frame expectations for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "a brief contention" when the argument is actually extensive or complex. This can mislead the reader and undermine your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a brief contention" functions as a noun phrase that introduces a summarized argument or point of view. Ludwig suggests it is correct and usable, although examples of its exact usage are limited. It sets the expectation for a concise discussion.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a brief contention" is a grammatically correct noun phrase used to introduce a summarized argument or point of view. As Ludwig AI indicates, while grammatically sound, direct examples are scarce, suggesting the expression might not be exceedingly common. Its suitability spans from neutral to professional contexts, setting the expectation for a concise discussion. When using this phrase, ensure the argument is indeed brief to avoid misleading the reader.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a brief assertion

Mirrors the original phrase but omits the word "contention".

a short argument

Focuses on the brevity of the argument itself.

a concise assertion

Highlights the succinct nature of the statement.

a quick dispute

Emphasizes the rapid unfolding of a disagreement.

a succinct claim

Stresses the conciseness of the statement being made.

a concise dispute

Highlights the conciseness of the disagreement.

a fleeting disagreement

Highlights the short duration of the disagreement.

a momentary argument

Focuses on the very short duration of the argument.

a short debate

Implies a formal exchange of views but retains the element of brevity.

a limited argument

Focuses on the scope of the argument being limited.

FAQs

How can I use "a brief contention" in a sentence?

You can use "a brief contention" to introduce a short argument or point of view. For example: "In her article, she presents "a brief contention" that climate change is primarily driven by human activity." Consider alternatives such as "a short argument" or "a concise assertion".

What are some alternatives to "a brief contention"?

Alternatives include "a short argument", "a concise assertion", or "a quick dispute". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a brief contention" in formal writing?

Yes, "a brief contention" is appropriate for formal writing, but ensure that the argument truly is brief. If the argument is complex, consider using a different phrase or expanding on the contention.

What is the difference between "a brief contention" and "a simple argument"?

"A brief contention" emphasizes that the argument is both short and potentially debatable. "A simple argument", on the other hand, suggests that the argument is straightforward and easy to understand, regardless of its length. Choose based on whether brevity or simplicity is the key characteristic.