Definition

Noun: - The subject of a dispute: A "bone of contention" is the central issue, point, or matter that causes disagreement or argument between people or groups. It is the specific thing that people are arguing about.

Usage

This phrase is used to identify the main source of conflict in a discussion, debate, or ongoing disagreement. It is a metaphorical idiom, comparing a disputed issue to a bone fought over by dogs.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The division of household chores has become a bone of contention in their marriage.
  • The new office policy on remote work is a major bone of contention among the staff.
  • Historically, the border between the two countries was the primary bone of contention.

Advanced Usage

• "to be a bone of contention": This is the standard construction. The phrase is almost always used with the verb "to be" (is, was, has been) or "to become."
  • The inheritance from their grandfather has been a bone of contention for years.
• The phrase can be modified by adjectives like , , , , or to describe the significance of the dispute.
  • The real bone of contention was not the schedule, but the budget.

Variants and Related Words

• Point of contention: A very similar phrase with essentially the same meaning, though slightly more formal.
  • The main point of contention in the contract talks is salary.
• Sticking point: Another idiom for a specific issue that prevents agreement from being reached.
• Dispute (n): A disagreement or argument.
• Issue (n): An important topic or problem for debate or discussion.

Synonyms

• Flashpoint: A place, event, or issue that is likely to provoke conflict.
• Crux: The decisive or most important point at issue.
• Root of the problem: The fundamental cause of a disagreement.

Related Idioms

• Apple of discord: (Less common) Something that causes envy, strife, or quarrel, originating from Greek mythology. While similar, "bone of contention" is more directly about the subject of an argument, while "apple of discord" implies the thing that the strife.
  • The vacant leadership position became the apple of discord within the party.

Noun

1. the subject of a dispute
   • the real bone of contention, as you know, is money