Contentiously: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is suitable for situations where there is a lot of disagreement and potential for conflict, often used to describe interactions or topics that tend to provoke intense debates.

• The meeting ended contentiously, with several participants raising their voices.
• The new policy was implemented contentiously, sparking protests among employees.

Appropriate for describing actions, statements, or topics that are likely to cause public disagreement or debate, often because they challenge accepted norms or are sensitive subjects.

• The artist controversially depicted political leaders in unflattering caricatures.
• The law was passed controversially, with widespread opposition from different groups.

This word describes a manner of engaging in discussions where there is a tendency to dispute or debate. It often implies a formal or intellectual style of argument and is less common in everyday language.

• The professors discussed the theory disputatiously, each offering critiques and counterpoints.
• The forum was known for its disputatious debates on philosophical issues.

This word is best used to describe a person's manner of speaking or behavior when they often engage in arguments. It has a negative connotation that implies a tendency to argue.

• He responded argumentatively to every suggestion, making it hard to reach a consensus.
• She can be very argumentative, especially when she feels strongly about a topic.

Use when describing actions or statements that are likely to provoke disagreements or arguments. It often has a negative connotation.

• He contentiously argued with his colleague about the new project direction.
• Her contentiously worded article sparked outrage online.

When highlighting that something is not certain and can be challenged or questioned. It often has a neutral or slightly negative connotation.

• The facts presented in the report are disputably accurate.
• His authority in this field is disputably recognized.

Used to indicate that a statement or claim is open to debate and can be argued from different perspectives. It usually has a neutral connotation.

• The movie was debatably the best of the series.
• Debatably, this policy could have both positive and negative effects.

Appropriate for describing speech or writing that is strongly critical or controversial, often aiming to argue against a particular opinion. It generally has a negative connotation.

• The book was written polemically, attacking the government's policies.
• His polemically charged speech angered many in the audience.