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Vocabulary Builder — Essay & Answer Writing

Contentious

adjective / kun-TEN-shus / Easy
Meaning

Causing or likely to cause disagreement or controversy

Origin / Etymology

Latin contentiosus, from contentio (strife, contest)

Synonyms
Controversial Disputatious Divisive
Antonyms
Uncontroversial Agreeable Harmonious
Example Sentence
"The implementation of the Uniform Civil Code remains one of the most contentious issues in Indian federalism, touching upon religious freedom, gender justice, and state authority."
🎯 UPSC Usage

Use in Essays and GS2 answers when introducing polarising policy debates — e.g., 'The contentious nature of the CAA triggered nationwide protests and judicial challenges.'

Relevant Subjects
Polity
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