Meaning & use
controversial
Likely to cause public disagreement or strong differences of opinion.
See it in a sentence
The mayor's controversial decision sparked protests across the city for days.
It remains a controversial topic among scientists and policymakers alike.
A note on using this word
Controversial describes a subject that provokes debate; it doesn't necessarily mean something is wrong, only disputed.
Words with a similar meaning
Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.
Words with an opposite meaning
uncontroversialundisputed
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