1. A topic or matter that causes or is likely to cause heated debate, disagreement, or argument among people with different opinions
Climate change remains a contentious issue in political discussions.
A mudança climática continua sendo uma questão controversa nas discussões políticas.
2. A subject that is disputed, debated, or controversial because people have strong and differing viewpoints
Healthcare reform is a contentious issue in many countries.
A reforma dos cuidados de saúde é uma questão controversa em muitos países.