contentious

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Sweeping contentious issues under the rug and relegating them to wanton aggravation is one major way of letting these same topics fester.

From Salon • Apr. 3, 2026

Even issues that would go on to be more contentious within feminism and outside it—body positivity, trans rights—did crucial work.

From Slate • Mar. 31, 2026

Burdell, an upscale restaurant serving nostalgic soul food, is the latest to be caught in contentious online debates about the U.S. tip culture.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 26, 2026

The U.S. remains what it has long been: a contentious, often frustrating democracy shaped by competing interests and imperfect leadership.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 26, 2026

The whole issue of Santa Claus is a rather contentious one when it comes to African Christmas, a matter of pride.

From "Born a Crime: Stories from a South African Childhood" by Trevor Noah