contention over whether

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "contention over whether" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a disagreement or debate regarding a specific issue or question. Example: "There is ongoing contention over whether the new policy will benefit the community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

The end of 2005 and early 2006 saw increased contention over whether to amend the constitution to permit the president and state governors to run for more than two terms.

The Washington Post

No Boos From the Pews My fiancé and I are planning a small wedding, and we've reached a point of contention over whether to invite a good friend of mine who has had some issues with my fiancé and openly disapproves of my choice of mate.

The New York Times

Although the contention over whether to publish two controversial H5N1 avian influenza studies appears to be waning, researchers should continue to abide by a voluntary moratorium on certain types of studies involving the virus, a senior U.S. science official said today.

Science Magazine

After decades of contention over whether Glendale or La Cañada Unified School District should have stewardship of children living in La Cañada's westernmost territory, known as "Sagebrush," school officials are closer than ever to negotiating a deal.

Los Angeles Times

There is contention over whether the patagia contain dermal and hypodermal layers.

Biology Open

There is contention over whether reported dose correlates with toxicity in paracetamol poisoning and risk assessment is currently based on serum paracetamol concentration compared to a nomogram, irrespective of reported dose.

Clinical Toxicology

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

The biggest point of contention is over whether and how taxpayers would benefit if the bailout succeeded in righting the financial system, sending banking stocks upward.

The New York Times

1.51pm BST Second half is go: THere's been a lot of talk about the penalty, with the main bone of contention being over whether or not Ashley Young dive and whether or not the contact was outside the box.

The Guardian - Sport

For instance, one point of contention over the EC review was whether evidence of toxicity in animals should be presumed to predict human effects in the absence of evidence to the contrary.

Environmental Health Perspectives

There was critical contention over the quality of the book; whether it was effervescently or breathily written, whether the "pray" section had any wisdom or was just pilfered new-age hocus pocus; all of which was followed by the inevitable debate over whether it deserved its popularity, which in 2006 – when the internet was younger and trend wasn't a verb – was outlandish.

The Guardian - Books

Arguing over whether the transaction is complete.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "contention over whether" to introduce a point of disagreement that involves considering different possibilities or outcomes. It sets a tone of formal debate or discussion.

Common error

Avoid mistaking "contention", which means disagreement, for "intention", which means purpose or plan. Using the wrong word can significantly alter the meaning of your sentence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "contention over whether" functions as a connector to introduce a point of disagreement or debate involving different conditions or outcomes. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is correct and usable in English, setting the stage for discussing conflicting viewpoints.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Academia

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "contention over whether" serves as a grammatical connector, initiating discussions about disagreements concerning different conditions or outcomes. It is deemed grammatically correct by Ludwig AI, which also offers real-world examples. Though not as frequent as some alternatives, its use is appropriate across various registers, especially in news, scientific, and academic contexts. When using the phrase in writing, it's important to differentiate "contention" from words like "intention" to avoid confusion. Alternatives like "dispute over whether" or "debate regarding whether" can be suitable depending on the level of formality and desired emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

dispute over whether

Replaces "contention" with "dispute", indicating a less formal disagreement.

debate regarding whether

Substitutes "contention" with "debate", suggesting a more structured discussion.

disagreement on whether

A more direct and simpler way to express the disagreement.

argument about whether

Uses "argument" instead of "contention", implying a possibly heated disagreement.

conflict concerning whether

Replaces "contention" with "conflict", indicating a deeper, more serious disagreement.

differing opinions on whether

Highlights the presence of multiple, conflicting viewpoints.

controversy surrounding whether

Emphasizes the widespread public interest and disagreement using "controversy".

varying perspectives on whether

Similar to differing opinions, but suggests a more nuanced range of views.

question of whether

Downplays the disagreement and presents it more as a matter of inquiry.

uncertainty regarding whether

Shifts the focus from disagreement to a lack of clarity or certainty.

FAQs

How can I use "contention over whether" in a sentence?

You can use "contention over whether" to introduce a clause that describes a debate or disagreement about a particular condition or outcome. For example, "There is significant "contention over whether" the new policy will be effective".

What's a formal alternative to "contention over whether"?

A more formal alternative could be "dispute regarding whether". This maintains a professional tone while expressing a disagreement about a specific point.

Is "contention over whether" grammatically correct?

Yes, "contention over whether" is grammatically sound. It correctly links a noun ("contention") with a preposition ("over") and a subordinate conjunction ("whether") to introduce a clause of uncertainty or debate.

What's the difference between "contention over whether" and "argument about whether"?

"Contention over whether" suggests a formal disagreement or debate, while "argument about whether" implies a possibly heated or less structured dispute. The choice depends on the context and the intensity of the disagreement you wish to convey.