contentious

Estimated CEFR level: C2 — Proficiency

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. adjective inclined or showing an inclination to dispute or disagree, even to engage in law suits
  2. adjective involving or likely to cause controversy; - Tim W.Ferfuson

Etymology

From Middle French contentieux, from Latin contentiōsus (“quarrelsome, perverse”), from contentiō (“contention”), from contendere, past participle contentus (“to contend”). Equivalent to English contention + -ous.

In classic literature

Synonyms

combative, disputatious, disputative, litigious

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