most contentious is

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "most contentious is" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when introducing a topic or issue that is particularly controversial or disputed. Example: "The most contentious is the debate over climate change policies, which often divides public opinion."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

The most contentious is over oil.

The New York Times

Most contentious is the issue of federalism.

The Economist

The most contentious is a measure to modify the limits on detention in serious crimes.

The New York Times

The final factor, and perhaps the most contentious, is public opinion.

The Guardian

The most contentious is likely to be a trial of "brood management".

The Guardian

Perhaps most contentious is the question of whether disarmed N.L.A. fighters will be among those allowed in the police force.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

Most contentious was the farm support program, which consumes almost half the European Union's budget.

The New York Times

In retrospect, however, the German aspect that proved the most contentious was embodied by the staging by Claus Guth.

The New York Times - Arts

Among the most contentious was an assertion that he had the power to lawfully override a statute banning torture.

The New York Times

Most contentious was his turn as a bucktoothed Japanese photographer in "Breakfast at Tiffany's" in 1961.

The Economist

The most contentious are likely to be Governor Thompson, an opponent of abortion rights, and Ms. Norton, an advocate of property rights and state control of environmental requirements.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "most contentious is", ensure the subject of contention is clearly defined immediately after the phrase to avoid ambiguity. For instance, "The "most contentious is" the issue of funding for the new project."

Common error

Avoid using "most contentious is" without a clear and specific subject. Vague references can confuse the reader; always specify what is being disputed. For example, instead of "The "most contentious is", be specific: "The "most contentious is" the proposed budget cuts".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "most contentious is" functions as an introductory phrase, specifically designed to highlight the most debated or disagreed upon aspect of a given subject. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase introduces a controversial element.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Academia

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "most contentious is" serves as an effective means to introduce topics laden with disagreement or controversy. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound and widely used in various contexts, especially within news, academic, and scientific domains. When using this phrase, ensure clarity in defining the subject of contention to avoid ambiguity and maximize impact. While alternatives like "most controversial is" and "biggest bone of contention is" offer similar meanings, understanding the nuances helps tailor the message for precision. Proper usage involves clearly identifying the subject of contention immediately following the phrase, thereby enhancing clarity and engagement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

most disputed is

Replaces "contentious" with "disputed", indicating a lack of agreement.

most controversial is

Substitutes "contentious" with "controversial", highlighting public disagreement.

biggest bone of contention is

Uses an idiomatic expression to emphasize the point of disagreement.

major point of disagreement is

Directly states the existence of a significant disagreement.

key point of contention is

Highlights the importance of the point of disagreement.

main source of conflict is

Focuses on the conflict arising from the issue.

primary area of debate is

Highlights the ongoing debate surrounding the issue.

most hotly debated is

Emphasizes the intensity of the debate.

sticking point is

Uses an informal term to describe the obstacle to agreement.

core disagreement lies in

Shifts the focus to where the disagreement is centered.

FAQs

What does "most contentious is" mean?

The phrase "most contentious is" introduces a topic or issue that is the subject of significant disagreement or debate. It highlights the area where opinions are sharply divided.

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

You can use "most contentious is" to introduce a controversial topic. For example, "The "most contentious is" the proposed changes to the healthcare system."

What are some alternatives to "most contentious is"?

Alternatives include "most disputed is", "most controversial is", or "biggest bone of contention is", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "most contentious are" instead of "most contentious is"?

Yes, "most contentious are" is grammatically correct when referring to multiple subjects. For example, "The "most contentious are" the proposed amendments to the bill".