Armed Forces Classification Test (AFCT) English Practice Test

What does the adjective "contentious" mean?

1. Peaceful

2. Argumentative

3. Uncertain

4. Supportive

The correct answer is: Argumentative

The adjective "contentious" refers to a tendency to cause disagreement or controversy, often characterized by arguments or disputes. When something is described as contentious, it suggests a strong inclination towards being argumentative or combative. This meaning connects closely with situations or topics that create tension among people, where differing opinions lead to conflict or debate. In contrast, other choices reflect opposing or unrelated meanings. For instance, "peaceful" denotes a state of tranquility, which is the opposite of contentious. "Uncertain" implies a lack of clarity or confidence, not inherently tied to argument or conflict. "Supportive" describes a position of assistance or encouragement, which also stands apart from the adversarial connotation of being contentious. Thus, the selection of "argumentative" aligns perfectly with the definition of "contentious."