a contested issue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a contested issue" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a topic or subject that is subject to disagreement or debate among different parties. Example: "The proposed policy change has become a contested issue among community members, leading to heated discussions at town hall meetings."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

33 human-written examples

This has long been a contested issue.

The New York Times

This is a contested issue both in the scientific literature and in policy deliberations.

Ecosystem Services

Asylum is a contested issue in Sweden, with the country's liberal consensus coming under strain.

The Guardian

Hollander declined to weigh in, saying she would not rule on a contested issue as part of a moot lawsuit.

The Washington Post

Climbing the rock is against the wishes of the traditional owners and has been a contested issue for decades.

The Guardian

Yes, the question of religion in schools has been a contested issue for some time, although the nature of the disputes has changed.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

27 human-written examples

Mr Gul is very similar to Mr Erdogan he has pursued very much the same political career and his wife, like Mr. Erdogan's, wears a veil, a highly contested issue in secularised Turkey.But while Islamic influence these days is synonymous with backwardness, under the AKP Turkey has seen remarkable economic growth and modernisation.

The Economist

This has been an expectation and a hotly contested issue in REDD+ (reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation) since its inception.

Global Environmental Change

The finding that heart muscle cells do regenerate, though at a considerably slower rate than Dr. Anversa predicted, is a "reasonable conclusion to a hotly contested issue," Dr. Murry said.

The New York Times - Science

For example, picking partner(s) to work with in a fiercely contested issue area such as religion introduces a host of potential problems.

Huffington Post

Although a hotly contested issue in Washington, swipe fees barely register as a concern to most Americans.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a contested issue", ensure the context clearly indicates who is contesting the issue and what the different viewpoints are. This provides clarity and prevents ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid presenting "a contested issue" as having only two sides. Acknowledge the nuances and multiple perspectives that often exist.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a contested issue" functions as a noun phrase that identifies a subject or topic characterized by disagreement or dispute. Ludwig confirms its usage in various contexts. It is often used to introduce or frame discussions about complex or divisive subjects.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a contested issue" is a noun phrase used to describe a topic characterized by significant disagreement or debate. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across various contexts, primarily in News & Media, Science, and Academia. The phrase serves to signal a lack of consensus and the need for careful consideration of different perspectives. While generally neutral in tone, its formality can shift based on the source, being more formal in academic or scientific writing and less so in informal contexts. It's important to acknowledge the phrase signals complexity and the likelihood of more than two sides to a debate. Closely related alternatives include "a disputed topic", "a controversial subject", and "a contentious point".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a disputed topic

Focuses on the element of disagreement and challenge.

a controversial subject

Emphasizes the potential for public debate and strong opposing views.

a contentious point

Highlights the element of argument and potential conflict.

a debatable matter

Emphasizes that the issue is open to discussion and different opinions.

an open question

Highlights the lack of a definitive answer or widespread agreement.

a matter of debate

Focuses on the formal process of discussing opposing viewpoints.

a point of contention

Highlights the disagreement aspect, but more specifically on the presence of conflict.

an unsettled question

Focuses on the lack of resolution or finality.

an area of disagreement

Emphasizes the specific aspect of conflicting opinions or perspectives.

a bone of contention

Suggests a long-standing and deeply rooted disagreement.

FAQs

How to use "a contested issue" in a sentence?

You can use "a contested issue" to describe a subject that is subject to disagreement or debate. For example, "The new zoning laws quickly became "a contested issue" in the community".

What can I say instead of "a contested issue"?

You can use alternatives like "a disputed topic", "a controversial subject", or "a contentious point" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "a contested issue" or "a controversial issue"?

Both ""a contested issue"" and "a controversial issue" are correct, but they emphasize slightly different aspects. "A contested issue" highlights the act of disputing, while "a controversial issue" emphasizes the potential for public disagreement.

What's the difference between "a contested issue" and "a debatable matter"?

"A contested issue" implies active opposition or disagreement, whereas "a debatable matter" simply means the topic is open for discussion and differing opinions.