What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
contested
Example
The election results were contested by the losing candidate. [contested: verb]
Example
The land ownership was contested by both parties, leading to a legal battle. [contested: adjective]
disputed
Example
The accuracy of the witness's testimony was disputed by the defense. [disputed: verb]
Example
There is a disputed claim that the city was founded in the 12th century. [disputed: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Disputed is more commonly used than contested in everyday language. Disputed is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while contested is less common and typically used in legal or political contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between contested and disputed?
Both contested and disputed can be used in formal contexts, but contested is more commonly associated with legal or political language, while disputed can be used in a wider range of formality levels.
