the issue is contentious

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the issue is contentious" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing a topic that is likely to cause disagreement or controversy among people. Example: "The issue is contentious, with strong opinions on both sides of the debate."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

Still, the issue is contentious in Congress.

The New York Times

The issue is contentious because the fossil record suggests that placental mammals did not expand, in terms of the number of different species, until after 65 million years ago.

The New York Times - Science

A dad and two mums Save the children Capital in the 21st century Wheel ambition Ed McMiliband No junk The demand side A sure hand at the wheel ReprintsIt was a free, unwhipped vote because, despite the potential benefits, the issue is contentious.

The Economist

But the issue is contentious and evidence that supports or refutes differences can be mustered by either side.

BMC Medical Education

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

The issue was contentious, but the government attracted little blame.

The New York Times

The issue was contentious and the proposed change to competitive bidding required consensus building among various stakeholders with divergent views, which is inherent in the legislative process.

The New York Times

He said the issue was contentious and emotional and likened it to perhaps wanting to be able to sell your own house to a foreign investor, "but if my neighbour wants to sell his place [then] foreign investment might be the last thing we want".

The Guardian

The issue was contentious for some time, involving lawsuits and various efforts to modify the law.

Wikipedia

Slashed education funding is a particularly big blow, given that the issue was contentious even before sequestration kicked in.

Huffington Post

"Even if the issues are contentious, it's really important that our political leaders are very cognizant of the impact this divisive discourse can have on people's real lives," she said.

The Guardian

However the brain drain issue is contentious, despite its clear rationale as an argument, as staff may be viewed, as commodities, neither taking their wishes for self-determination into account, nor their quality of life.

BMC Medical Ethics

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "the issue is contentious" to introduce a topic where different opinions or viewpoints are expected. It sets the stage for a balanced discussion or exploration of different sides.

Common error

Avoid using "the issue is contentious" when describing minor disagreements or simple differences of opinion. Reserve it for matters that genuinely spark debate or controversy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the issue is contentious" functions as a declarative statement used to introduce a subject that is likely to cause disagreement or controversy. It prepares the audience for a discussion involving conflicting viewpoints, as validated by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "the issue is contentious" is a grammatically correct and usable expression to introduce a topic that is likely to cause disagreement or controversy. Ludwig confirms its validity and utility in written English. It's most frequently found in news and media contexts, signalling an objective approach to debatable subjects. While not exceedingly common, it effectively sets the stage for balanced discussions. For alternatives, consider phrases such as "the matter is disputed" or "the topic is controversial" to convey similar meanings with slight nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

The matter is disputed

Focuses on the disagreement surrounding the subject.

The topic is controversial

Highlights the polarizing nature of the subject.

The subject is contested

Emphasizes the act of challenging or disputing the matter.

There is much debate surrounding the issue

Highlights the ongoing discussion and varying opinions.

The question is under contention

Focuses on the state of being argued or disputed.

The point is debatable

Suggests the lack of a definitive answer or agreement.

The area is fraught with disagreement

Highlights the presence of tension and conflict.

The problem is fraught with conflict

Similar to the previous phrase, but uses "conflict" instead of disagreement, suggesting potentially stronger opposition.

It's a point of contention

Highlights that it is a specific point that causes disagreement

The problem is open to question

Emphasizes the uncertainty and lack of consensus surrounding the matter.

FAQs

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

You can use "the issue is contentious" to introduce a topic likely to cause disagreement or controversy. For example: "The issue is contentious, with strong opinions on both sides of the debate."

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

You can use alternatives like "the matter is disputed", "the topic is controversial", or "the subject is contested" depending on the context.

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

Yes, "the issue is contentious" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when discussing topics that are subject to significant debate or disagreement. However, ensure that your writing remains objective and balanced.

What makes an issue 'contentious'?

An issue is 'contentious' when it provokes strong disagreement and debate, often involving conflicting values, beliefs, or interests. Contentious issues usually have multiple valid perspectives, making resolution challenging.