main point of contention

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "main point of contention" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to the primary issue or disagreement in a discussion or debate. Example: "The main point of contention in the negotiations was the budget allocation for the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

This is important because, in the debate over net neutrality, the issue of who gets to do what with the network they built has been the main point of contention, while stopping the flow of illegal content online (including pirated content) has played a somewhat secondary role.

Forbes

The main point of contention has been what happened after the shooting.

The New York Times

Contracting out work has been the main point of contention in other Boeing contract talks.

The New York Times

The inclusion of carbon dioxide in the bill was the main point of contention.

The New York Times

The European parliament's resolution seeks to eliminate the main point of contention between the US and Europe.

The Guardian - Opinion

(In a distinctly Asian twist, the main point of contention is a seat on the city housing authority).

The New York Times

In 2004, Bhatti's decision to set the play in a gurdwara became the main point of contention.

The Guardian

But the main point of contention here is, who's in charge, and how to manage the intra-band dynamic?

The Guardian - Music

The main point of contention between the two sides has been the work rules in the contract.

The New York Times

The main point of contention is uranium enrichment, which can create both reactor fuel and fissile material for weapons.

The Guardian

The main point of contention will be Assad's future: Russia wants to preserve his leadership in the short term.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "main point of contention", ensure that the context clearly establishes the parties involved in the disagreement and the specific nature of the issue. Providing context enhances clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "main point of contention" in casual or informal settings. Simpler terms like "main issue" or "key disagreement" may be more appropriate for everyday conversation or less formal writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "main point of contention" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject complement or object of a sentence. It identifies the primary issue or disagreement being discussed. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Encyclopedias

10%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "main point of contention" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase that effectively identifies the primary issue in a disagreement or debate. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is most commonly found in news and media sources and is suitable for neutral to formal contexts. While alternatives exist, this phrase provides clarity and precision when highlighting the core of a dispute. Remember to ensure that the context clearly identifies the parties involved and the nature of the disagreement for maximum clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

central issue of disagreement

Focuses on the core problem causing disagreement.

key area of dispute

Highlights the significance and confrontational aspect.

primary source of conflict

Emphasizes the antagonistic nature of the issue.

core disagreement

Simplifies the phrase to its most essential elements.

major sticking point

Suggests an obstacle preventing progress.

fundamental difference

Points to a basic divergence in opinion or belief.

principal bone of contention

Uses a more idiomatic and emphatic expression.

chief cause of argument

Directly identifies the reason for debate.

central bone of contention

Focuses on the core problem.

primary concern

Highlights the main worry or point of anxiety.

FAQs

How can I use "main point of contention" in a sentence?

The phrase "main point of contention" is typically used to identify the primary issue in a debate or disagreement. For example: "The religious exemption is the "main point of contention" between the Senate and Assembly versions of the women's health bill."

What phrases are similar to "main point of contention"?

Similar phrases include "central issue of disagreement", "key area of dispute", or "primary source of conflict". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "main point of contention" in informal writing?

While grammatically correct, "main point of contention" is generally more suitable for formal or professional writing. In informal contexts, consider using simpler alternatives like "main issue" or "key disagreement".

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

"Main point of contention" specifically implies a disagreement or dispute, whereas "main issue" is a more neutral term that simply indicates the central topic without necessarily involving conflict.