Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Definitions

contentious

[kuhn-ten-shuhs] / kənˈtɛn ʃəs /


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.

See Examples For:

The firings mark the latest escalation in Hegseth’s increasingly contentious relationship with the press.

From Salon Aug. 22, 2026

In November 2025, a faction of the party, which observers say represented the majority of members, held a contentious national convention in Ibadan, Oyo state, despite court orders attempting to stop it.

From BBC Aug. 20, 2026

It shows how, for the growing ranks of wealthy Americans, which state they call home is more contentious than ever.

From The Wall Street Journal Aug. 8, 2026

The 43-year-old got everyone in America talking about the memoirs “Strangers” and “The Tell,” but her talent for finding stories that resonate and ignite has drawn her into some of publishing’s most contentious debates.

From The Wall Street Journal Aug. 5, 2026

The actual number is slightly contentious because the heavy, synthesized elements exist for only millionths of seconds and chemists sometimes argue over whether they have really been detected or not.

From "A Short History of Nearly Everything" by Bill Bryson




Vocabulary lists containing contentious


Vocabulary.com logo
by dictionary.com

Dictionary.com's Learning Companion

Go beyond just looking up words.
Remember them forever with VocabTrainer.

Start training