The word "contentious" is spelled as /kənˈtɛnʃəs/, with the primary stress on the second syllable. It originates from the Latin word "contentiosus", meaning quarrelsome or controversial. The "con-" prefix means 'with' or 'together', while "-tious" denotes a tendency towards something. In this case, "contentious" refers to a person who is likely to provoke an argument or a topic that is likely to cause disagreement or controversy. As a result, contentious discussions are often fraught with tension and emotion.
The term "contentious" is an adjective used to describe a situation, topic, or person that evokes or causes heated disagreement, controversy or disputes. It refers to anything that is likely to spark disagreement, disagreement or discord among individuals or groups due to its controversial nature.
Contentious situations often involve strong opinions or differing viewpoints, contributing to an atmosphere of contention or conflict. This could be seen in political debates, controversial social issues, or scientific disputes where opposing parties hold deeply entrenched positions. In such circumstances, people are likely to engage in arguments, debates, or confrontations as they possess conflicting viewpoints or interests.
Furthermore, the term "contentious" can also characterize an individual who tends to be argumentative, confrontational, or quarrelsome. Such a person may actively seek out disagreements or disputes, or may simply possess a combative disposition that leads to conflict in various contexts.
Overall, when something or someone is described as contentious, it suggests a likelihood of disagreement, controversy, or discord. It indicates a state of contention or tension, often due to opposing opinions, conflicting interests, or incompatible beliefs.
Quarrelsome; given to angry debate; litigious.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word contentious traces back to the Latin word contentiosus, which is derived from the noun contentio meaning strife or contention. The Latin term ultimately comes from contendere, which means to strive or to compete.