is a contentious issue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is a contentious issue" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a situation in which there is a great deal of disagreement about an issue and controversy around it. For example, "The legality of abortion is a contentious issue in many countries."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Stirring is a contentious issue.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Not surprisingly, this is a contentious issue.

The New York Times

Regulation of the third sector is a contentious issue.

The Guardian

Whether the ISS, the most expensive object ever built, is worth $100bn is a contentious issue.

Independent

Money is a contentious issue, but so are drinking and work ethic.

The New York Times - Arts

Government stimulus spending is a contentious issue right now in Washington.

The New York Times - Tech

Obviously this is a contentious issue, especially in a place like Mossel Bay.

The New York Times

Withdrawal from the Golan Heights is a contentious issue in Israel.

The New York Times

Logging is a contentious issue in this 70-mile-long valley just south of Missoula.

The New York Times

Drilling in the Arctic is a contentious issue on which the Senate is closely divided.

The New York Times

However, how to test the stability of sport utility vehicles is a contentious issue.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Avoid overusing the phrase in a single piece of writing. Vary your language with synonyms like "is a matter of contention" or "is subject to debate" to maintain reader engagement.

Common error

Don't assume every disagreement qualifies as a "contentious issue". Reserve this phrase for debates with deep-seated, widespread disagreement. Avoid using it for minor or easily resolved disputes.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is a contentious issue" functions as a predicate nominative, identifying the subject (a topic, policy, or situation) as one that generates considerable disagreement or debate. Ludwig confirms that it's a standard and accepted way to introduce controversial topics.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

36%

News & Media

36%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is a contentious issue" is a grammatically sound and widely used expression for introducing topics marked by significant disagreement, according to Ludwig. As evidenced by a high frequency of examples across diverse sources, including news, science, and academia, it serves to prepare the audience for a discussion involving diverse perspectives and potential debate. Ludwig AI highlights that the phrase effectively signals the presence of differing viewpoints on a particular subject, making it essential to approach such topics with objectivity and a balanced understanding. When writing, be sure to employ synonyms to avoid repetition and ensure you are using the phrase to accurately characterize significant and widespread disagreements, not just minor disputes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is a matter of contention

Replaces "contentious issue" with a synonymous phrase, maintaining a formal tone.

is subject to debate

Indicates that the issue is being actively discussed and argued.

is a point of disagreement

Focuses on the lack of consensus surrounding the issue.

is a bone of contention

Emphasizes the divisiveness and potential for conflict.

remains unresolved

Highlights the lack of a settled conclusion or agreement.

is hotly debated

Emphasizes the intensity and passion surrounding the debate.

is a matter of dispute

Indicates that the issue is contested and challenged.

provokes disagreement

Focuses on the issue's ability to cause dissent and opposition.

is a source of conflict

Highlights the potential for the issue to lead to confrontation.

is open to question

Suggests that the issue is not settled and requires further examination.

FAQs

How can I use "is a contentious issue" in a sentence?

You can use "is a contentious issue" to introduce a topic that is subject to strong disagreement or debate. For example, "Whether or not to mandate vaccinations "is a contentious issue" in many communities".

What are some alternatives to "is a contentious issue"?

Alternatives include "is a matter of contention", "is subject to debate", or "is a point of disagreement". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "is a contentious issue" in formal writing?

Yes, "is a contentious issue" is suitable for formal writing. However, be mindful of your audience and context. More formal alternatives, such as "is a matter of contention", may be preferred in certain situations.

What makes an issue "contentious"?

An issue is "contentious" when it evokes strong disagreement, argument, or controversy. It often involves conflicting values, beliefs, or interests, leading to sustained debate and difficulty in reaching consensus.