February 02, 2012
contention (noun)
\kun-TEN-shun\ Hear it!
What does it mean?
1 : an act or instance of contending2 : an idea or point for which a person argues (as in a debate or argument)
How do you use it?
It is her contention that the new law will only benefit the wealthy.
Are you a word wiz?

Which word do you think is a synonym of "contention"?

"Contention," "argument," "assertion", and "thesis" all refer to an idea or opinion that is put forth in a discussion or debate. "Contention" suggests an idea or opinion expressed in opposition to something, as in "Evidence supports the contention that the island was uninhabited before the 18th century." "Argument" suggests an attempt to persuade someone to agree with you, as in "His argument did not convince his opponents." "Assertion" suggests a firm belief in the truth of something, as in "His assertions about politics put a strain on their friendship." "Thesis" suggests a statement that someone wants to discuss or prove, as in "Her thesis was shown to be correct."
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