The phrase "argumentative but" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to introduce a contrasting idea or opinion that follows an assertion about being argumentative.
Example: "She is often argumentative but always open to discussion."
Alternatives: "contentious yet" or "disputatious however".
He could be argumentative but had this ability not to take himself too seriously".
The first performance had an argumentative but ultimately rather successful reception.
Their working relationship was argumentative, but their affection and respect for one another were constant.
The character was bad-tempered and argumentative, but a true wizard nonetheless.
Mr. Saylor might have been stubborn and argumentative, but he was not mentally ill or a criminal.
The meetings grew more argumentative but the majority, including Mr. Cailleteau, still believed that richer European countries would support Greece.
(It is relevant that Protagoras' celebrated work 'Truth', which began with the famous 'Man the Measure' sentence (see below) apparently had the alternative title 'Overthrowing' (sc. Arguments) (Kataballontes).) So Protagoras taught argumentative strategies, but we have comparatively little evidence of what these actually were.
I really don't mind good, argumentative letters... But people do not have the right to abuse or threaten me.
Mr. Baker protested Mr. Petrocelli's argumentative tone, but the judge said that as long as the witness persisted in arguing he would allow such questions.
But no matter where they are, the same rules apply: the talk must be fast, vigorous, jokey, argumentative, anything but boring.
University leaders might baulk at the idea of more argumentative staff, but entrepreneur and author Margaret Heffernan argues they must learn to embrace constructive conflict.
