bone of contention

Definitions

Something that continues to be disputed; something on which no agreement can be reached.

idiomatic

Equivalents

Examples

“It is still a bone of contention whether to go ahead with the original plan⟳ in light⟳ of the new evidence.”

“The crossing caused serious congestion with long traffic hold-ups, and had been a bone of contention between the local authorities and the railway for over eighty years. It was controlled from Fletton Road Junction Signalbox (removed at the same time) and, until a wheel was installed in 1920, required two gatemen on each turn⟳ of duty.”

“England's "Football Coming Home" anthem became a serious bone of contention at the World Cup - with Croatia using it as a sign⟳ of arrogance from their opponents in the build⟳ up to the semi-final.”

CEFR level