Controversy
/ˈkɒntrəvɜːrsi/
Definitions
A disagreement or dispute, often public and prolonged, about a matter of opinion.
/ˈkɒntrəvɜːrsi/
A prolonged public dispute, debate, or contention.
The decision to close the local library caused considerable controversy within the community.
💡 Simply: Imagine two people arguing loudly about something in public. That's a controversy! It's like when everyone is talking about the same thing, but they all have different and strong opinions, leading to a big debate. For example, the color of a dress can cause a controversy on social media.
👶 For kids: A big argument that lots of people are talking about.
More Examples
The singer's provocative performance ignited a media controversy.
The company's new advertising campaign generated controversy due to its controversial content.
How It's Used
"The proposed legislation sparked significant controversy."
"The artist's latest work has stirred up much controversy."
"There's been a lot of controversy about the new dress code."
Idioms & expressions
stir up controversy
To cause a lot of public discussion and disagreement; to provoke debate.
"The politician's remarks stirred up controversy among the voters."
become a subject of controversy
To be the topic of debate or argument.
"The new policy quickly became a subject of controversy."
From Middle French controverse, from Latin controversia ('a turning against, dispute'), from controversus ('turned against, disputed'), from contra ('against') + versus ('turned').
The word 'controversy' has been used since the 14th century, originally referring to a debate or dispute in a religious or legal context, gradually expanding to include any subject of public disagreement.
Memory tip
Think of a 'verse' against another – a heated debate.