contentious point

USAGE SUMMARY

"contentious point" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It means a topic or issue that is highly debated or controversial. Example: The contentious point in the political debate was whether or not to raise taxes on the wealthy.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Another contentious point is to what extent a SoP would determine an applicant's fate.

Functional Linguistics

Immigration is another contentious point.

The New York Times - Magazine

This is a contentious point.

The Guardian

It's a rather contentious point.

The Guardian - Tech

Revenue sharing was the contentious point among the owners.

The New York Times

But whether creating segregated parks is the right solution is a contentious point.

Independent

The use of high-capacity magazines is a contentious point in the gun debate.

The Washington Post

A highly contentious point is tossed in like a piece of undigested raw intelligence.

The Guardian - Books

The toxin is present in the nectar; the contentious point is to what extent and to what effect.

The Guardian - Opinion

This proved to be a contentious point, as former LBJ aides and historians emerged to refute her narrative.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Which, I admit, is a contentious point".

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "contentious point" to clearly signal a topic that involves disagreement or debate within a specific context. It adds a layer of formality and seriousness to the discussion.

Common error

Avoid using "contentious point" in casual conversations or informal writing. It can sound overly formal or stilted in settings where a more relaxed tone is appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "contentious point" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It identifies a specific issue or topic that is subject to disagreement, debate, or controversy. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Science

32%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Wiki

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "contentious point" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed noun phrase, as verified by Ludwig AI. It serves to pinpoint a specific subject of disagreement or debate, frequently used in news, scientific, and academic writing. While versatile, it is best suited for neutral to formal registers, signaling seriousness and inviting careful consideration. When less formality is needed, alternatives like "sticky issue" or "hot topic" may be more appropriate. Its frequent appearance in authoritative sources underscores its reliability and widespread acceptance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

bone of contention

Emphasizes the idea that something is a source of ongoing argument or disagreement.

matter of dispute

Focuses on the fact that there's a disagreement or controversy surrounding the topic.

disputed point

Highlights that the validity or truth of something is being challenged.

point of disagreement

Directly highlights the lack of agreement on a specific issue.

argumentative subject

Highlights that the topic will trigger or is currently triggering a debate.

debatable issue

Implies that the topic is open to discussion and different opinions.

controversial topic

Highlights the polarizing nature of the issue.

sensitive subject

Suggests that the issue may cause discomfort or offense.

thorny question

Implies that the issue is complex and difficult to resolve.

vexed question

Similar to "thorny question", but suggests a higher level of frustration or annoyance.

FAQs

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

You can use "contentious point" to introduce a topic that is subject to disagreement. For example, "The most "contentious point" in the negotiations was the distribution of profits."

What's a less formal alternative to "contentious point"?

If you're looking for a less formal way to describe a topic of disagreement, you could use phrases like "sticky issue", "hot topic", or "matter of debate".

Which is correct, "contentious point" or "contentions point"?

"Contentious point" is the correct and commonly used phrase. "Contentions point" is grammatically incorrect.

What's the difference between ""contentious point"" and "point of contention"?

While both phrases are similar, ""contentious point"" emphasizes the controversial nature of the issue itself, while "point of contention" highlights that the issue is the specific cause of an argument or dispute.