Controversial

/ˌkɒn.trəˈvɜː.ʃəl/

Meaning & Definition

adjective

Giving rise or likely to give rise to public disagreement.

The proposed law on gun control is highly controversial and has sparked intense debate.

Relating to or characteristic of controversy.

His controversial remarks during the interview angered many viewers.

Causing a lot of public dispute or disagreement.

The documentary addresses several controversial issues in modern society.

Likely to arouse a strong reaction because it challenges social norms or beliefs.

The artist's controversial painting was banned from the exhibition due to its provocative content.

Disputed or disputed in a public context.

The scientist's controversial research findings have led to a reevaluation of existing theories.

Late Middle English: from Latin controversialis, from controversia (see controversy).

controversial figure

A person who provokes public disagreement.

controversial issue

A topic that leads to conflicting opinions or debates.

controversial topic

A subject that causes disagreement and heated discussions.

controversy

A prolonged public dispute or debate.

debate

A formal discussion on a particular topic.

dispute

A disagreement or argument.

Controversy magnet

He's a real controversy magnet; everything he says seems to cause a stir.

Hot topic

That celebrity's love life is a hot topic right now, very controversial!