contentious mood

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "contentious mood" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a state of being characterized by disagreement or conflict, often in discussions or debates. Example: "The meeting was filled with a contentious mood, as team members argued over the proposed changes to the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

The $5.12 million uses up what is known in tax law as the unified credit for gift and estate taxes, and many financial advisers are encouraging clients to take advantage of the credit now because with Washington's contentious mood nobody knows what, if any, new tax laws may be passed for 2013 and beyond.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

The mood was contentious and combative, to put it mildly.

The New York Times

In the first conference call to discuss the deal with members yesterday, the mood was contentious.

The New York Times

But the mood was contentious and slightly off-kilter throughout the proceedings.

HuffPost

ARE you in the mood for a contentious debate?

The New York Times

Mailer wrote two erotically hyper-charged novels in this period, "The American Dream" and "Why Are We in Vietnam?," but, as the country's mood became hotly contentious, he began writing an expansive new form of journalism, which, for its evocative power and philosophical reach, has never been equalled.

The New Yorker

With the national mood so somber and contentious, President Fernando Henrique Cardoso has shown signs of increasing exasperation.

The New York Times

Coach Wade Phillips comes across as warm and fuzzy in contrast to the contentious relationship Romo had with Bill Parcells, a mood shift Romo hopes will unlock his potential further in his first full season as a starter.

The New York Times - Sports

But following a contentious collapse of the agreement, Canada and Mexico may be in no mood to negotiate.

The New York Times

After a weekend in which 22 Israelis were killed, the mood in a Cabinet meeting on Monday was bitter and contentious, according to Israeli news reports.

The New York Times

The United States on Monday injected a note of caution into the mood of optimism surrounding recently revived talks on Iran's contentious uranium enrichment program, calling on the Iranians to take "urgent, practical steps" to prove their sincerity in complying with obligations on the nonproliferation of nuclear weapons.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a situation as having a "contentious mood", ensure that the context clearly reflects active disagreement or conflict. Avoid using it for simple differences of opinion that are not actively debated.

Common error

Avoid using "contentious mood" when a situation is merely tense or uncertain. "Contentious" implies active and often heated disagreement, not just a general feeling of unease.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "contentious mood" functions as an adjective-noun combination, where 'contentious' modifies 'mood'. This construction describes a specific quality or characteristic of the mood. Ludwig confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

25%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "contentious mood" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe an atmosphere filled with disagreement or conflict. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. Although its frequency is relatively rare, the phrase is most commonly found in news and academic contexts. When employing this phrase, ensure that the context genuinely reflects active disagreement rather than mere tension. Alternatives like "argumentative atmosphere" or "disputatious tone" may offer subtle variations in meaning. Using "contentious mood" appropriately adds precision to descriptions of conflict-laden situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

argumentative atmosphere

Focuses on the environment created by the contentiousness, highlighting the overall feeling of argument.

disputatious tone

Emphasizes the way something is said or written, rather than the general feeling.

fractious disposition

Highlights an inherent tendency toward disagreement and irritability.

combative spirit

Implies a readiness to fight or argue, focusing on the energy behind the contentiousness.

hostile environment

Stresses the unwelcoming nature of the situation due to the contentiousness.

discordant atmosphere

Emphasizes the lack of harmony and agreement.

antagonistic climate

Highlights the actively opposed and unfriendly nature of the situation.

bitter sentiment

Focuses on the feeling of resentment and animosity.

acrimonious feeling

Highlights the sharpness and bitterness of the emotion.

polarized atmosphere

Emphasizes the division and separation of opinions or groups.

FAQs

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

You can use "contentious mood" to describe an atmosphere filled with disagreement and argument, such as: "The meeting was filled with a "contentious mood" as the parties debated the budget cuts."

What phrases are similar to "contentious mood"?

Alternatives to "contentious mood" include "argumentative atmosphere", "disputatious tone", or "hostile environment".

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "contentious mood"?

Use "contentious mood" when describing situations marked by active and heated disagreement, often involving strong emotions and conflicting viewpoints.

Is "contentious mood" a formal or informal expression?

"Contentious mood" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but it is generally more appropriate for describing serious or significant disagreements.