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contention
/kənˈtɛnʃən/
heated disagreement
The main point of contention in the meeting was the budget allocation.
The primary disagreement during the meeting centered on how to allocate the budget.
formal
A heated disagreement or dispute, often involving strong opinions.
The contention between the two scientists lasted for years.
The prolonged disagreement between the two scientists persisted for years.
Her contention that the policy was unfair was widely discussed.
Her argument that the policy was unjust sparked much debate.
Often used in legal, academic, or professional contexts to describe unresolved disputes.
formal
An assertion or claim made in the course of an argument.
His contention was that the data supported his hypothesis.
He argued that the data provided evidence for his hypothesis.
Common in debates, research papers, and discussions where claims are challenged.
Collocations
point of contentiona topic causing disagreementin contentionbeing disputed or competed formain contentionthe primary argument or disagreement
Pro Tip
Avoiding redundancy
Do not confuse 'contention' with 'contest'—while both imply disagreement, 'contention' focuses on verbal or written arguments, whereas 'contest' often involves competition or challenges.
Gold Rule
Context matters
Use 'contention' when the disagreement is intellectual or involves opposing viewpoints, not physical conflict.
Word Origin
From Latin *contentio(n-)*, meaning 'striving, contest,' derived from *contendere* ('to strive, contend'), combining *con-* ('together') and *tendere* ('to stretch').
Usage Notes
Used in both formal and neutral contexts. Avoid using it to describe minor disagreements; it implies significant or prolonged conflict.
Word Breakdown
con-
together, with
prefix-tent-
to stretch, strive
root-ion
action or state of
suffixEnglish Dictionary