Synonyms for

Contentious

Verb / kʌˈntenʃʌs / Another word for contentious — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

causing or likely to cause an argument or controversy

Synonyms & similar words

disputative disputatious combative litigious argumentative combative disputatious quarrelsome belligerent controversial disagreeable hostile opinionated polemical factious litigious bellicose pugnacious wrangling dissonant competitive challenging opposing contradictory

Synonyms by register

Formal

disputatious argumentative quarrelsome litigious

Informal

feisty spicy hot-tempered touchy

Literary

combative bellicose truculent

Antonyms

peaceful agreeable amicable harmonious conciliatory uncontroversial

Common collocations

  • contentious issue
  • contentious debate
  • contentious person
  • contentious matter
  • contentious relationship
  • contentious politics
  • contentious argument

Word family

noun contention
verb contend
adjective contentious
adverb contentiously

Usage note

Contentious often describes issues or people that are likely to cause arguments or disputes. It implies a strong disagreement rather than mere disagreement.

Example sentences

  1. The contentious issue divided the group.
  2. Their discussion became very contentious.
  3. The politician made a contentious statement.
  4. The committee had a contentious debate.
  5. The contentious topic sparked a heated argument.

Quotes

  • The most contentious debates are those where both sides are right.
  • Contentious people are always ready to argue.
  • Controversy is often the result of contentious behavior.

Try these popular words

the and that for you with was this are have not from

Practice

Play the Word Synonyms game · Choose level (start near 1)

Worksheets

Grade 4 · Grade 5 · Grade 6

Topics

Guides

Explore more words