This adjective describes something that causes strong public disagreement.
The idea
Use controversial before a noun or after a linking verb to describe a subject people strongly disagree about.
Examples
- The council discussed a controversial proposal.
- The new law remains controversial.
- That museum exhibition became controversial.
- The committee avoided a controversial topic.
- A controversial decision divided the community.
- The article examines a controversial policy.
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Watch out
Do not assume controversial means wrong: people may defend or oppose the subject.
Try it yourself
Choose the correct answer. The plan divided voters; it was ___. (controversial / unanimous)
Show answer or example answer
controversial
controversial fits a proposal that divides opinion.
Choose the correct answer. The ___ debate attracted many opposing views. (controversial / controversially)
Show answer or example answer
controversial
controversial describes the debate, not the manner of speaking.
Choose the correct answer. A controversial issue causes public ___. (disagreement / silence)
Show answer or example answer
disagreement
disagreement captures the opposing views.
Practice round
Answer questions and rebuild English sentences to practise. Your score is shown.
Choose the correct answer. The plan divided voters; it was ___. (controversial / unanimous)
Choose the correct answer. The ___ debate attracted many opposing views. (controversial / controversially)
Choose the correct answer. A controversial issue causes public ___. (disagreement / silence)
Tap the words in the right order.
Tap the words in the right order.
Tap the words in the right order.
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Describe a proposal that might divide public opinion.