B2noun 2K

Controversy

🇬🇧 UK /["/ˈkɒntrəvɜːsi//kənˈtrɒvəsi/"]/ 🇺🇸 US /["/ˈkɑːntrəvɜːrsi/"]/

Meaning of Controversy

public discussion and argument about something that many people strongly disagree about, think is bad, or are shocked by

In simple words: A disagreement or argument about something important.

Controversy in a sentence

• The controversy surrounding climate change continues to spark intense debates.
• Many artists face controversy for their provocative works.
• The film was met with controversy due to its portrayal of historical events.
• The controversy over the new policy has left the community divided.
• In academic circles, the controversy about the theory has not been resolved.

How to use Controversy

Use 'controversy' when discussing topics that have strong opposing opinions, especially in media, politics, or social issues. Avoid in casual conversation unless discussing a significant issue.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'con' and 'trov' as in 'con' for 'against' and 'trov' sounds like 'trouble' — trouble between opposing sides.

Related words

Collocations with Controversy

• considerable
• great
• major
• arouse
• cause
• create
• arise
• break out
• erupt
• amid controversy
• controversy about
• controversy concerning
• a matter of controversy
• a source of controversy
• a subject of controversy

Synonyms for Controversy

• dispute
• debate
• argument
• contention
• dissent

Opposites of Controversy

• agreement
• consensus

Common mistakes with Controversy

• Confusing 'controversy' with 'controversial' — they have different grammatical roles.
• Using 'controversy' in a singular form when the context implies multiple issues.
• Mispronouncing it, especially the 'versy' part.

Frequently asked questions about Controversy

What does Controversy mean?

A disagreement or argument about something important.

What is the definition of Controversy?

public discussion and argument about something that many people strongly disagree about, think is bad, or are shocked by

How do you use Controversy in a sentence?

The controversy surrounding climate change continues to spark intense debates.

Can you give another example of Controversy?

Many artists face controversy for their provocative works.

What are synonyms for Controversy?

Common alternatives include dispute, debate, argument, contention, dissent.

What is the opposite of Controversy?

Opposite meanings include agreement, consensus.

What words go with Controversy?

It commonly pairs with considerable, great, major, arouse, cause, create, arise, break out, erupt, amid controversy, controversy about, controversy concerning, a matter of controversy, a source of controversy, a subject of controversy.

What are common mistakes when using Controversy?

Confusing 'controversy' with 'controversial' — they have different grammatical roles. Using 'controversy' in a singular form when the context implies multiple issues. Mispronouncing it, especially the 'versy' part.

How do you pronounce Controversy?

US: /["/ˈkɑːntrəvɜːrsi/"]/, UK: /["/ˈkɒntrəvɜːsi//kənˈtrɒvəsi/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Controversy?

Use 'controversy' when discussing topics that have strong opposing opinions, especially in media, politics, or social issues. Avoid in casual conversation unless discussing a significant issue.

What CEFR level is Controversy?

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