root of contention

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "root of contention" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the main source of disagreement or conflict in a discussion or situation. Example: "The root of contention between the two parties was the differing views on environmental policies."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Without a doubt, the biggest root of contention with the Zune users isn't the hardware (which is very good) or the marketplace (which is likewise awesome), but the lack of other users to share music with.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

With Brian Cook of Clark University he contributed to the centennial issue of the American Political Science Review with an analysis of Woodrow Wilson's contribution to the field of political science, "Wilson's Failure: Roots of Contention About the Meaning of a Science of Politics".

Huffington Post

The root of such contention is fairly clear, of course.

TechCrunch

Therapeutic approaches are a source of contention as well.

Fertility and Sterility

The Middle East remained a source of contention.

Wikipedia

With the PBSA boom, a danger is that the eternal divide between "town and gown" – a bone of contention with deep medieval roots – may just gain a new, global dimension.

Independent

I ask about Shaw's contention that the root of the problem is in the way wheat is farmed these days.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

But while the Met's position has its roots in long-simmering resentments toward Lincoln Center, the latest points of contention seem clearly related to the organization and operation of the new corporation in charge of the redevelopment.

The New York Times - Arts

While the Italian riders want to knock Armstrong out of contention in their home race, the Italian fans seem to be rooting for him.

The New York Times - Sports

Out of contention.

The New York Times - Sports

The bone of contention?

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "root of contention" to identify the fundamental cause of a conflict or disagreement. This phrase is most effective when you want to emphasize the underlying reason for ongoing issues.

Common error

Avoid using "root of contention" for minor or temporary disagreements. Reserve it for the deeply seated, fundamental issues that drive ongoing conflict.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "root of contention" functions as a noun phrase identifying the primary cause or source of a disagreement or conflict. Ludwig AI indicates it's a correct and usable phrase, as demonstrated in the example about the Zune users.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "root of contention" is a useful tool for identifying the fundamental source of conflict or disagreement. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. While not a particularly frequent phrase, as indicated by the limited number of examples, it's appropriate for both formal and neutral contexts, particularly in news, media, and analytical writing. Related phrases like "source of conflict" or "point of disagreement" can serve as alternatives depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Avoid using "root of contention" for superficial issues, reserving it instead for the core, underlying causes of ongoing disputes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

source of conflict

Replaces "root" with "source" and "contention" with "conflict", offering a more direct synonym.

point of disagreement

Focuses on the specific point where agreement breaks down, rather than the overall source of conflict.

bone of contention

Uses a metaphorical expression for a subject or issue over which there is continuing disagreement.

core issue

Simplifies the phrase by focusing on the central problem or matter at hand.

primary source of dispute

Replaces "contention" with "dispute" and adds "primary" for emphasis, highlighting the main cause of the argument.

underlying cause of conflict

Highlights the deeper, often hidden, reasons behind a disagreement.

fundamental disagreement

Emphasizes the basic and essential nature of the disagreement.

mainspring of controversy

Uses a more formal and somewhat archaic term ("mainspring") to denote the primary cause of controversy.

crux of the matter

Focuses on the most important or decisive point at issue.

chief source of friction

Highlights the element causing tension or animosity.

FAQs

How can I use "root of contention" in a sentence?

You can use "root of contention" to pinpoint the primary source of a disagreement, as in, "The differing interpretations of the contract were the "root of contention" between the parties".

What are some alternatives to "root of contention"?

Alternatives include "source of conflict", "point of disagreement", or "bone of contention", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "root of contention" formal or informal?

"Root of contention" is generally suitable for both formal and informal contexts, though it leans slightly towards the formal side. In very casual settings, simpler phrases like "main problem" might be more appropriate.

What is the difference between "root of contention" and "point of contention"?

"Root of contention" refers to the underlying cause or origin of a conflict, while "point of contention" refers to a specific issue or matter that is being disputed. The "root" is the deeper cause, while the "point" is the surface-level disagreement.