a contentious argument

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a contentious argument" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a debate or discussion that is likely to cause disagreement or controversy among people. Example: "The panel discussion turned into a contentious argument, with each side passionately defending their viewpoints."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

It's a contentious argument, but it brings up an interesting point; maybe business students would be better served by having more applied experience as part of their requirements.

The Economist

This is a contentious argument to venture during an Ashes summer, but it's worth hearing – and ready made for discussion in the Test Match Special lunch slot.

The Guardian - Film

Originally called a swing revolution, then roundly denigrated, the term Stack and Tilt can still start a contentious argument on any practice range or golf blog in the world.

The New York Times

On the one hand, he said, the President's visit coincides with a bad chapter in Argentina's economic history and a contentious argument over how the country will handle its creditors, the so-called vulture funds.

The New Yorker

Fibers vs. callbacks has become a contentious argument in the Node.js community.

TechCrunch

What Orr never explicitly states--because it's a contentious argument, the subject of passionate debate over recent decades--is the idea that form drives meaning.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

A more contentious argument is that prenatal screening leads to long-term societal savings by avoiding the high costs of lifetime care for people with conditions such as Down syndrome.

European Journal of Human Genetics

If the case ever gets to trial, the defense will offer an even more contentious argument: that Nichols, who has pled not guilty, acted out of a "delusional compulsion" (a version of the insanity defense allowed under Georgia law).

The New Yorker

But an even more contentious argument for withdrawing the troops is that they have become detrimental to American interests.

The New York Times

To back up this contentious argument, Trump cited a study that he said showed that entering the Paris Agreement would leave the U.S., by 2040, three trillion dollars poorer, and with 6.5 million fewer jobs.

The New Yorker

In a legal brief, which was filed shortly before midnight, the administration included the contentious argument that litigating the matter could reveal state secrets.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using synonyms such as "heated debate" or "controversial issue" for variety and to precisely convey the nuance of the disagreement.

Common error

Avoid using "contentious" excessively without clearly specifying what the argument is about. Be specific about the nature of the disagreement to maintain clarity for your audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a contentious argument" functions as a noun phrase, with "contentious" modifying the noun "argument". Ludwig AI examples showcase it describing debates or points of strong disagreement.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a contentious argument" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase in English, describing an argument that is likely to cause disagreement or controversy. According to Ludwig, it's most frequently found in News & Media and Science contexts. While not exceptionally common, it is readily understood. When using this phrase, ensure the context clarifies the subject of the disagreement to maintain clarity. Consider synonyms like "heated debate" or "controversial issue" for variety and precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a debatable point

Focuses on the aspect of being open to discussion and disagreement.

a disputed claim

Emphasizes the aspect of the argument being challenged or doubted.

a controversial issue

Highlights the divisive nature and potential for strong disagreement.

a heated debate

Focuses on the intensity and emotional aspect of the discussion.

a bone of contention

Emphasizes the argument as a source of ongoing disagreement.

a point of contention

Highlights the argument as the specific subject of disagreement.

a matter of dispute

Emphasizes the argument as a subject of disagreement or conflict.

an arguable case

Highlights the possibility of presenting different sides of the argument.

a provocative statement

Focuses on the aspect of deliberately causing discussion or argument.

a source of conflict

Emphasizes the potential for the argument to create disagreement and tension.

FAQs

How can I use "a contentious argument" in a sentence?

You can use "a contentious argument" to describe a situation where there is a strong disagreement or debate. For example, "The proposal sparked "a contentious argument" among the board members".

What can I say instead of "a contentious argument"?

You can use alternatives like "a heated debate", "a controversial issue", or "a disputed claim" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "contentious argument" or "controversial argument"?

Both "contentious argument" and "controversial argument" are acceptable, but "contentious" emphasizes the active disagreement, while "controversial" highlights the potential to cause disagreement. The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What makes an argument "contentious"?

An argument is considered "contentious" when it is likely to cause disagreement or dispute. It suggests a topic where there are strongly opposing viewpoints and a high probability of conflict.