a controversial matter

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a controversial matter" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a topic or issue that is likely to provoke differing opinions or strong reactions. Example: "The proposed law on climate change has become a controversial matter among lawmakers and citizens alike."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

46 human-written examples

any theological discussion of a controversial matter?

Yale University

Testing transportation operators to detect possible drug use is a controversial matter.

Encyclopedia Britannica

How exactly to interpret such a passage as to what will really happen is a controversial matter.

Yale University

A controversial matter during the session of Congress just drawing to a close was the "Mississippi challenge".

The New Yorker

Rumtek being a controversial matter, it's not in his interest to go there because there are other claimants.

The New York Times

Sulfated metal oxides have a very high acidity, being considered by some as superacids, although it is still a controversial matter.

Catalysis Today

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

14 human-written examples

And soon, food became a controversial subject matter in Britain, with Nigel Farage proudly inviting reporters to watch him eat a bacon sandwich.

The Washington Post

The platform also advises creators about the types of videos not considered "advertiser friendly", including content that's sexually suggestive, violent or dealing with a controversial subject matter.

The Guardian - Tech

The pressure of a controversial subject matter and having to shoot in a mere thirteen days didn't seem to hinder the actors in the slightest.

Huffington Post

But, what happens when it is your opinion on a controversial topic that matters to the consumer?

Forbes

While it was agreed by nearly all that God was not a material being, the state of the human soul was a more controversial matter.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a controversial matter", ensure the context clearly identifies the source or nature of the controversy to avoid ambiguity. For example, specify "a controversial matter in scientific research" or "a controversial matter in political debate".

Common error

Avoid using "a controversial matter" to describe minor disagreements or personal preferences. Reserve it for issues with significant public debate or ethical implications to maintain credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a controversial matter" functions as a noun phrase that identifies a topic or issue as being subject to disagreement or debate. According to Ludwig, the phrase is considered grammatically correct and appropriate for use in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

35%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a controversial matter" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase to denote a topic that is subject to disagreement or debate. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is widely accepted in written English. It frequently appears in contexts such as news, scientific publications, and academic discussions, indicating its versatility across different domains. When employing this phrase, ensure the context clearly signals the nature of the controversy and avoid overstating minor disagreements. Alternatives such as "a contentious issue" or "a disputed topic" may offer nuanced variations depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a contentious issue

Replaces "matter" with "issue", implying a point of debate or dispute.

a disputed topic

Substitutes "matter" with "topic", suggesting a subject under disagreement.

a point of contention

Directly indicates an area of disagreement or dispute.

a bone of contention

An idiom that means a subject of disagreement.

a debatable point

Emphasizes the aspect of being open to discussion and argument.

a sensitive subject

Highlights the potential for causing offense or strong emotional reactions.

a delicate situation

Suggests a situation needing careful handling to avoid conflict.

a vexed question

Indicates a question that is difficult to answer and causes much debate.

an apple of discord

An idiom that implies that something has caused a lot of disagreement or bad feeling

an open question

Suggests a topic that is unresolved and still subject to discussion.

FAQs

What does "a controversial matter" mean?

It refers to a subject or issue that is likely to provoke disagreement, debate, or strong opposing views.

How can I use "a controversial matter" in a sentence?

You can use it to introduce a topic that is subject to debate. For example, "The ethical implications of AI are "a controversial matter" for many researchers".

What are some alternatives to "a controversial matter"?

Consider using phrases like "a contentious issue", "a disputed topic", or "a sensitive subject" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a controversial matter" in formal writing?

Yes, it is suitable for formal writing. However, ensure that the context warrants the term and that your discussion remains objective and balanced.