B2adjective2K

UK/["/ˌkɒntrəˈvɜːʃl/"]/US/["/ˌkɑːntrəˈvɜːrʃl/"]/

Meaning of Controversial

causing a lot of angry public discussion and disagreement

In simple words: Something that causes a lot of argument or disagreement.

Controversial in a sentence

  • a **highly controversial** topic
  • one of the most controversial of London’s new office blocks
  • A controversial plan to build a new road has met with protests.
  • Winston Churchill and Richard Nixon were both controversial figures.
  • a highly controversial subject
  • Her controversial new play sparked a riot outside the theatre.
  • It is one of the most controversial of London's new office buildings.

How to use Controversial

Use 'controversial' for topics that are debated or disputed. Typically appropriate in discussions about politics, social issues, or media. Avoid using in casual conversations where lighter topics are discussed.

Grammar pattern

controversial + noun

Memory hint

Think of 'controversy' - something that sparks strong opinions and debate.

Related words

Collocations with Controversial

Synonyms for Controversial

  • debatable
  • disputed
  • arguable
  • contentious
  • divisive

Opposites of Controversial

  • uncontroversial
  • accepted
  • uncontentious

Common mistakes with Controversial

  • Confused with 'controversy' - remember that 'controversial' is the adjective.
  • Using 'controversial' to describe unimportant topics.
  • Omitting it when discussing known contentious issues.

Controversial appears in

Controversial in other languages

More words like Controversial

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Frequently asked questions about Controversial

What does Controversial mean?

Something that causes a lot of argument or disagreement.

What is the definition of Controversial?

causing a lot of angry public discussion and disagreement

How do you use Controversial in a sentence?

a **highly controversial** topic

Can you give another example of Controversial?

one of the most controversial of London’s new office blocks

What are synonyms for Controversial?

Common alternatives include debatable, disputed, arguable, contentious, divisive.

What is the opposite of Controversial?

Opposite meanings include uncontroversial, accepted, uncontentious.

What words go with Controversial?

It commonly pairs with be, prove, become, extremely, fairly, very.

What are common mistakes when using Controversial?

Confused with 'controversy' - remember that 'controversial' is the adjective. Using 'controversial' to describe unimportant topics. Omitting it when discussing known contentious issues.

How do you pronounce Controversial?

US: /["/ˌkɑːntrəˈvɜːrʃl/"]/, UK: /["/ˌkɒntrəˈvɜːʃl/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Controversial?

Use 'controversial' for topics that are debated or disputed. Typically appropriate in discussions about politics, social issues, or media. Avoid using in casual conversations where lighter topics are discussed.

What CEFR level is Controversial?

"Controversial" is at B2 level on the CEFR scale.