a contentious matter

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a contentious matter" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a topic or issue that is likely to cause disagreement or controversy among people. Example: "The proposed changes to the policy have become a contentious matter among the stakeholders involved."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

"In the end, I think the system was able to cope with a contentious matter.

The New York Times - Tech

The composition of the Security Council has been a contentious matter, particularly since the end of the Cold War.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The very effort by the Americans to build a 350,000-strong Afghan Army is a contentious matter with General Kayani.

The New York Times

The July 27 game against the Red Sox, in which Torre pinch-hit for Mondesi, has become a contentious matter between the Yankees and Mondesi.

The New York Times - Sports

With the budget deficit a contentious matter, it will not be easy to enact that or any other new spending measure.

The New York Times

In this context, grant-hungry researchers usually bring up the examples of diabetes, motor-neuron disease and Parkinson's disease.Embryonic stem-cell research has been a contentious matter in America ever since the technology to do it was developed in 1998.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

"It's just not true that he kept [the claims] up for five years," Christie told CNN's State of the Union, calling the matter "a contentious issue" – although in fact only a fringe group of conservatives ever embraced the so-called "birther" movement.

The Guardian

Treatment of elderly NSCLC patients with cisplatin-based regimens has been a less contentious matter nowadays but toxicity remains a major issue.

BMC Cancer

To arrive at a definitive set of performing parts is a highly contentious matter, and thus grist for the fine-grinding mills of musicologists, who love nothing more than a good scrape.

The New York Times - Arts

On a more contentious matter in Queens, the Council approved a proposal for landmark status that had been simmering for four years among residents in Sunnyside Gardens, a leafy enclave of tidy houses and courtyards.

The New York Times

The document was also drafted to give bishops uniform guidelines on an increasingly contentious matter, as a growing number of Catholics contest the church's position that only men can be ordained as priests.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a contentious matter" when you want to describe a situation or topic that is likely to provoke disagreement, debate, or argument. Be mindful of the specific context to ensure that the intensity of the phrase matches the situation.

Common error

Avoid using "a contentious matter" for minor disagreements or trivial issues. Overusing the phrase can diminish its impact and make your writing seem hyperbolic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a contentious matter" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject complement or object of a sentence. It identifies a specific issue or topic as one that is likely to cause disagreement or argument, as demonstrated by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a contentious matter" is a noun phrase used to describe a topic or issue likely to provoke disagreement or debate. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and frequently used, particularly in news, science, and encyclopedia contexts. While versatile, it is essential to ensure the phrase's intensity aligns with the situation, avoiding overuse in trivial contexts. Alternatives like "a disputed issue" or "a controversial topic" offer nuanced ways to convey similar meanings. By understanding its function, purpose, and appropriate usage, writers can effectively employ "a contentious matter" to frame discussions of complex and potentially divisive subjects.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a disputed issue

Emphasizes the aspect of active disagreement and challenge.

a controversial topic

Highlights the potential for public debate and conflicting opinions.

a matter of contention

Formal phrasing that puts emphasis on the disagreement itself.

a point of disagreement

Focuses specifically on the differing opinions involved.

a sensitive subject

Indicates potential discomfort or strong emotions surrounding the issue.

a delicate situation

Highlights the need for careful handling due to potential negative consequences.

a problematic area

Implies that the issue presents challenges and difficulties.

a thorny issue

Uses a metaphor to convey the complexity and potential for pain or trouble.

a vexed question

Suggests a long-standing and difficult question with no easy answer.

a divisive subject

Emphasizes the way the issue splits people into opposing groups.

FAQs

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

You can use "a contentious matter" to describe a topic that causes disagreement. For example, "The new policy quickly became "a contentious matter" within the team".

What is a more formal alternative to "a contentious matter"?

A more formal alternative to "a contentious matter" is "a matter of contention". This phrase is often used in legal or academic contexts.

Is "a sensitive matter" the same as "a contentious matter"?

While both phrases describe challenging situations, "a sensitive matter" implies delicacy and the need for discretion, whereas ""a contentious matter"" highlights active disagreement and debate.

What are some situations where I should avoid using "a contentious matter"?

Avoid using "a contentious matter" in situations where the disagreement is minor or easily resolved. Phrases like "a minor disagreement" or "a slight difference of opinion" might be more appropriate.