What does "contentious" imply?

The term "contentious" is most accurately defined as involving or likely to cause controversy or disagreement. This adjective is often used to describe situations, topics, or individuals that provoke disputes or are argumentative in nature. For instance, in a discussion or debate, a contentious issue might spark heated exchanges among participants, reflecting differing opinions or intense disagreements.

In contrast, the other options present meanings that are opposite or unrelated to the definition of "contentious." Promoting harmony and agreement suggests a conciliatory approach, which is clearly at odds with the idea of causing controversy. Unproductive and ineffective conveys a sense of lack of results or outcomes, which does not align with the contentious nature tied to active disagreement. Likewise, calm and peaceful imply a state free from conflict, contrasting sharply with the provocative implications of being contentious. Therefore, the choice of “involving or likely to cause controversy” accurately captures the essence of the word.