it is contentious

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is contentious" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a topic or issue that is likely to cause disagreement or controversy among people. Example: "The proposed policy changes are highly debated, as it is contentious among various stakeholders."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

It is contentious and stressful.

The New York Times

For many, it is contentious and even laughable to suggest that colonialism endures in the present.

The Guardian

"It is contentious but you can see things in different ways," argued McCafferty.

The Guardian - Sport

It is contentious stuff, worthy of widespread study and intense debate.

The Guardian

The second is partly symbolic, but is meant to have future practical significance; it is contentious but resolvable.

The New Yorker

It is contentious whether nursing home acquired pneumonia (NHAP) should be treated as community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) or health care associated pneumonia.

Journal of the American Medical Directors Association

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

It was contentious.

University of Pennsylvania

You know, it's contentious and people are hitting back.

The New York Times

It's a contentious issue, and frankly, it's contentious every time.

The Guardian - Tech

It was contentious; it was emotional; but, ultimately, they made a decision to recognize civil marriage.

The New York Times

"It's contentious and tough but it should be tough," Mr. Edwards said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is contentious" when you want to acknowledge differing opinions or a lack of consensus on a particular topic. Be mindful of your audience and consider whether a more neutral or less charged phrase might be more appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "it is contentious" without explaining why a topic is controversial. Always provide context or briefly outline the differing viewpoints to give your reader a clearer understanding of the issue.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is contentious" functions as a statement to introduce a subject that is subject to disagreement or debate. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

33%

Academia

21%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it is contentious" effectively introduces topics characterized by disagreement and debate. Ludwig AI analysis reveals its grammatical correctness and usage across diverse sources like news, science, and academic texts. While the phrase is appropriate for formal and informal contexts, it's more common in formal writing due to its precision. When using "it is contentious", provide context to explain the controversy. Alternatives such as "it is debatable" or "it is controversial" can be used to convey similar meanings with slightly different nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is debatable

Changes the wording to emphasize the topic is open to discussion and differing opinions.

it is disputable

Focuses on the idea that the subject's validity or truth can be challenged.

it is arguable

Highlights that there are valid arguments to be made on different sides of the issue.

it is controversial

Emphasizes the likelihood of causing strong disagreement or public dispute.

it is contested

Suggests active opposition and disagreement surrounding the subject.

it is questionable

Indicates uncertainty or doubt regarding the validity or correctness of something.

it is unsettled

Highlights that the matter is not yet resolved or agreed upon.

it is uncertain

Emphasizes the lack of clarity or predictability associated with the subject.

it is unproven

Focuses on the lack of evidence or validation for a claim or statement.

it is under discussion

Highlights that the topic is currently being considered and debated.

FAQs

What does "it is contentious" mean?

"It is contentious" means that a topic is likely to cause disagreement or argument. It suggests that there are strongly opposing views and no easy consensus.

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

You can use "it is contentious" to introduce a topic that is debated or disputed. For example, "Whether or not the new policy will be effective, "it is contentious"."

What are some alternatives to "it is contentious"?

Alternatives to "it is contentious" include "it is debatable", "it is disputable", or "it is controversial", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "it is contentious" formal or informal?

"It is contentious" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, though it is more commonly found in formal writing due to its precise and somewhat elevated tone. Simpler alternatives may be preferred in very informal settings.