a contentious problem

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a contentious problem" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an issue that is likely to cause disagreement or controversy among people. Example: "The debate over climate change remains a contentious problem, with differing opinions on the best course of action."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

A contentious problem was the hand-over of a detention facility at Bagram, which for the Afghans had become a touchstone of sovereignty and pride — but for the NATO alliance carried risks of letting dedicated enemies back into the fight.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

YouTuButhas a plan to combat the abundant conspitacy theories that feature in credulous videos on its platform; not a very good plan, but a plan just the same.

TechCrunch

The document addresses the contentious problem of proximity to the spill.

The New York Times

Barça has provided a distinctive solution to some of the most contentious problems in management theory.

The Economist

While Congress sat on its hands for most of the last five years, the court took on some of the most contentious problems of presidential power in a set of landmark decisions concerning detainees being held as enemy combatants.

The New York Times - Magazine

Overtime work and wage rates also remain contentious problems.

The New York Times

The logistics of the move has been among the more contentious problems, and the notion of relocating detainees in the United States has provoked alarm in some communities and a bipartisan Congressional protest.

The New York Times

China's resistance to taking a higher international profile on difficult foreign policy issues, and its desire to keep away from contentious problems, is becoming much more challenging.

BBC

One of the most contentious problems regarding the Exodus investigation is the fact that there is no archeological evidence for various places mentioned in the biblical travel itinerary of the Israelites as they fled Egypt for the Promised Land, Canaan.

Huffington Post

President Obama and lawmakers of both parties have begun laying the groundwork for something that is supposed to be unachievable in Washington today: a bipartisan deal to solve a bitterly contentious, complicated problem in a big way.

The New York Times

Quality, affordable healthcare remains a contentious, complex and urgent societal problem.

Decision Support Systems

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider replacing "a contentious problem" with a more specific term if possible. For example, instead of "a contentious problem in education", you could say "the debate over standardized testing".

Common error

Avoid using "contentious" in extremely casual or informal settings where simpler words like "disputed" or "debatable" might be more appropriate. The term carries a level of formality that can sound out of place in everyday conversation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a contentious problem" functions as a noun phrase, where "contentious" modifies the noun "problem". It is used to describe a specific type of problem characterized by disagreement and debate, as supported by Ludwig's analysis that the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a contentious problem" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe a problem characterized by disagreement and debate. Ludwig indicates it's usable in written English. Although relatively rare, it is most commonly found in news and media contexts. When using the phrase, ensure clarity regarding the source and nature of the disagreement. Alternatives include "a disputed problem" and "a controversial issue", offering subtle variations in meaning to suit specific contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a disputed problem

Emphasizes that the problem is subject to disagreement or argument.

a controversial issue

Highlights that the problem is likely to cause public disagreement or disapproval.

a debatable matter

Focuses on the problem being open to discussion and differing opinions.

a problematic dispute

Combines the idea of a problem with the presence of a heated disagreement.

a thorny issue

Implies the problem is complex and difficult to resolve.

a sensitive subject

Highlights the problem as one that requires careful handling due to potential offense or controversy.

a difficult disagreement

Focuses on the challenging nature of the disagreement itself.

a vexed question

Suggests the problem is one that causes annoyance, frustration or worry.

an arguable point

Emphasizes the aspect of being able to make a case for different sides of the issue.

a challenging debate

Focuses on the difficulty and complexity of the debate surrounding the problem.

FAQs

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

You can use "a contentious problem" to describe an issue that is subject to disagreement or debate. For example: "The issue of immigration reform remains "a contentious problem" in many countries."

What are some alternatives to "a contentious problem"?

Some alternatives to "a contentious problem" include "a controversial issue", "a disputed matter", or "a debatable topic". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to say "a contentious problem" or "a controversial problem"?

Both "a contentious problem" and "a controversial problem" are acceptable. "Contentious" emphasizes the tendency to cause argument, while "controversial" emphasizes the likelihood of public disagreement. The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What makes a problem "contentious"?

A problem is considered "contentious" when it provokes strong disagreement and argument, often due to conflicting viewpoints or values. It suggests that the problem is not easily resolved and is likely to be debated extensively.