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Dictionary definition of contention

A state or act of disagreement, dispute, or conflict between individuals, groups, or parties.
"The main bone of contention between the political parties was the issue of taxation."

Detailed meaning of contention

It involves a clash of ideas, opinions, or interests, where each side presents arguments or claims in opposition to one another. Contention often arises when there are differing viewpoints, conflicting objectives, or competing priorities. It can occur in various contexts, including debates, negotiations, legal proceedings, or even everyday disagreements. Contentions can range from minor disputes to significant conflicts, and they may involve verbal arguments, legal battles, or even physical confrontations. The noun "contention" signifies a state of disagreement or opposition, where individuals or groups contend for their own position, seeking to convince or persuade others to accept their viewpoint or achieve their desired outcome.

Example sentences of contention

1. The main contention of his argument was that space exploration should be a priority.
2. Despite our close friendship, we have one point of contention: our opposing political beliefs.
3. The controversy arose from a simple contention about the company's budget allocations.
4. The historian's contention that King Arthur was a real person is still hotly debated.
5. The team's primary contention was over who would lead the project.
6. The judge asked both lawyers to clarify their main points of contention before proceeding.

History and etymology of contention

The noun 'contention' has its etymological roots in the Latin word 'contentio,' which is derived from 'contendere.' 'Contendere' combines 'con-' meaning 'together' and 'tendere' meaning 'to stretch' or 'to strive.' This etymology effectively conveys the essence of 'contention' as a state or act of figuratively stretching or striving together, often in the form of disagreement, dispute, or conflict between individuals, groups, or parties. It implies a competitive or antagonistic effort where conflicting viewpoints or interests are actively pursued. The term 'contention' maintains its etymological connection to the concept of striving or stretching toward opposing goals, highlighting the competitive and sometimes combative nature of disputes and conflicts.

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Further usage examples of contention

1. Her contention that modern art lacks depth offended several artists at the exhibition.
2. The bone of contention between the two neighbors was a towering, old oak tree.
3. In my contention, the government should invest more in renewable energy sources.
4. His book was based on the contention that the universe is constantly expanding.
5. The speaker's contention that education is a basic human right was met with widespread approval.
6. The local council has a point of contention with the proposed skyscraper's height.
7. A major contention in the scientific community is the ethical implications of genetic editing.
8. Their marriage was always peaceful, with little room for any contention.
9. It was his contention that sports play a crucial role in character building.
10. The professor's contention that Shakespeare's plays were written by someone else stirred up controversy.
11. The contentious debate ended with no clear resolution to the original contention.
12. The root of their contention was a long-standing family dispute.
13. She stood her ground, firm in her contention that the decision was unjust.
14. The contention between the two rivals grew more intense.
15. Their contention over the property dispute led to a legal battle.
16. The contention among coworkers made the office environment tense.
17. Political contention often arises during election seasons.
18. The contention between the siblings was causing family strife.
19. The court attempted to resolve the contention between the parties.
20. The board meeting was marked by heated contention.
21. Contention often arises when scarce resources are involved.
22. The contention over the decision split the committee into factions.
23. Resolving the contention required mediation from a neutral party.
24. The team's contention for the championship title fueled their determination.