contestable
/kən'testəbl/
Definition
- Adjective:
- Capable of being contested: Describes something that can be argued against, disputed, or challenged. It implies that an assertion, claim, decision, or outcome is not absolute and is open to debate or formal challenge.
Usage
- The adjective "contestable" is used to describe statements, theories, results, or rights that are not definitively settled and can be questioned.
- It is often used in formal, academic, legal, or philosophical contexts to indicate that a point is debatable.
- It typically precedes a noun or follows a linking verb like "is" or "seems."
Examples
- Before a noun:
- The referee's decision was a contestable call that angered the fans.
- She presented a contestable hypothesis that sparked much discussion.
- After a linking verb:
- The election results are contestable due to reports of irregularities.
- His claim to the inheritance is contestable.
Advanced Usage
- In philosophy/logic: A "contestable concept" is one whose meaning or application is essentially disputed and open to interpretation (e.g., justice, democracy).
- "Freedom" is a classic example of a contestable concept.
- In law: A "contestable clause" in an insurance policy or a "contestable claim" refers to something that can be legally disputed within a certain period.
- The will became contestable after new evidence emerged.
Variants and Related Words
- Contest (verb/noun): To dispute or argue about; a competition or dispute.
- They decided to contest the ruling.
- Contestant (noun): A person who takes part in a contest or competition.
- Uncontestable/Incontestable (adjective): The direct opposite; not able to be disputed.
- The evidence was incontestable.
Synonyms
- Debatable: Open to discussion or argument.
- Disputable: Capable of being argued about.
- Arguable: Able to be argued; plausible.
- Questionable: Doubtful as to truth or validity.
Antonyms
- Incontestable: Not able to be disputed.
- Indisputable: Unable to be challenged or denied.
- Unquestionable: Not able to be doubted.
- Certain: Established beyond doubt.
Adjective
-
capable of being contested
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