Quarrelsome: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when describing someone who frequently engages in arguments or disagreements in a petty or unnecessary way. Often has a negative connotation.

• He has a quarrelsome nature, always finding something to argue about.
• The team's progress was hindered by a quarrelsome member who disagreed with every decision.

Best suited for describing someone who likes debating or discussing ideas, sometimes to the point of being annoying. Can be used in both neutral and negative tones depending on context.

• She is known for her argumentative style, always ready to challenge others' opinions.
• The meeting was prolonged by his argumentative comments about every suggestion.

Appropriate for describing situations, issues, or people that cause a lot of disagreement and debate. It usually implies that the subject is controversial.

• The new policy on taxes has proven to be highly contentious.
• Her contentious remarks during the meeting sparked a heated debate.

Used to describe someone who has an aggressive, ready-to-fight attitude. It often implies a more intense or physical confrontation.

• His combative nature makes him difficult to work with in team projects.
• The media portrayed the politician as combative during the debate.

Best for formal or academic contexts to describe someone who likes to argue or debate, often in a scholarly manner. It carries a neutral to slightly negative tone.

• The professor was known for his disputatious lectures, which often led to lively discussions.
• Her disputatious nature made her a frequent participant in debates.