What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
contestation
Example
The contestation between the two candidates was fierce, with each trying to prove their point. [contestation: noun]
Example
The company filed a contestation against the government's decision to revoke their license. [contestation: noun]
controversy
Example
The controversy surrounding the new policy has sparked heated debates among politicians and the public. [controversy: noun]
Example
The book's controversial content has led to protests and calls for it to be banned. [controversial: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Controversy is more commonly used than contestation in everyday language. Controversy is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while contestation is less common and may be more formal or technical in nature.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between contestation and controversy?
Contestation is typically associated with a formal and technical tone, while controversy can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.