What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
conflictive
Example
The conflictive relationship between the two countries has been ongoing for years. [conflictive: adjective]
Example
He has a conflictive personality and always seems to be arguing with someone. [conflictive: adjective]
Example
Politics can be a conflictive topic, often leading to heated debates. [conflictive: adjective]
contentious
Example
The contentious issue of gun control continues to be debated in the United States. [contentious: adjective]
Example
She has a contentious personality and loves to argue with others. [contentious: adjective]
Example
Religion can be a contentious topic, often leading to strong opinions and disagreements. [contentious: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Contentious is more commonly used than conflictive in everyday language. Contentious is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while conflictive is less common and typically used in specific situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between conflictive and contentious?
Both conflictive and contentious are generally informal words, but contentious may be used in more formal contexts due to its wider usage and versatility.
