a controversy between

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a controversy between" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a disagreement or dispute involving two or more parties or groups. Example: "The article discusses a controversy between environmentalists and industrialists regarding the proposed construction of the new factory."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

44 human-written examples

There was a controversy between the….

The New Yorker

That case did not involve a controversy between two appropriation States.

Cornell University

I don't want to get embroiled in a controversy between Bart Giamatti and Ernie Boyer.

Yale University

This proceeding does not involve a controversy between the consignors and the consignees; and the carriers cannot be allowed to import one into it.

Cornell University

Here we have a controversy between two divisions of the National Railroad Adjustment Board as to the disputes over which they respectively have jurisdiction.

Cornell University

Mr. Bell's action provoked a controversy between Democrats and Republicans over whether the truce should have been broken and questions about a possible retaliatory complaint against a Democrat.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

16 human-written examples

After these states became independent, a controversy subsisted between them and Spain respecting boundary.

University of Chicago

In late July 2010, a controversy developed between Edmonton mayor Stephen Mandel and Smith over the future of the city-centre airport.

Wikipedia

Reuchlin's defense of many Jewish writings provoked fanatical recriminations from Pfefferkorn, resulting in a war of pamphlets and culminating in a widespread controversy between conservative scholars and the Humanists, who often caricatured Pfefferkorn in their popular writings.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Spontaneous generation was the subject of a great controversy between the famous French bacteriologists Louis Pasteur and Félix-Archimède Pouchet in the 1850s.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It does not necessarily follow that there is no longer a live controversy between these parties, even if we assume, arguendo, that the new statute satisfies all of appellants' constitutional objections to the old one.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Select a more precise word like "dispute", "conflict", or "debate" for better convey the specific disagreement or issue when possible.

Common error

While "controversy" is appropriate for significant disagreements, avoid using it in trivial or minor disputes. Consider using a more casual term like "argument" or "difference of opinion" for everyday situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a controversy between" acts as a noun phrase, functioning primarily as the subject or object of a sentence. It introduces a disagreement, often public and prolonged, involving two or more distinct parties, as seen in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Academia

30%

Science

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Wiki

7%

Formal & Business

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a controversy between" is a commonly used phrase to introduce a disagreement or dispute involving two or more parties. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and suitability across various contexts, from news reporting and academic discussions to scientific analysis. While its frequency is common, it's crucial to use it appropriately, reserving it for significant public disagreements and avoiding overuse in trivial situations. Alternatives like "a dispute involving" or "a conflict involving" can provide more specific nuances, while being mindful of maintaining clarity by always identifying the involved parties when using "a controversy between".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a dispute involving

Focuses on the disagreement itself, rather than the context of a controversy.

a conflict involving

Suggests a more active and potentially hostile disagreement.

a disagreement among

Emphasizes differing opinions or viewpoints among multiple parties.

a contention between

Implies a strong assertion or argument, often in a formal setting.

a quarrel among

Indicates a personal or emotional disagreement.

a debate over

Highlights a structured discussion with differing viewpoints.

an argument between

Suggests a verbal exchange of opposing views, potentially heated.

friction between

Implies underlying tension or animosity.

discord among

Emphasizes a lack of harmony or agreement.

a clash involving

Highlights a direct confrontation or collision of interests.

FAQs

How can I use "a controversy between" in a sentence?

Use "a controversy between" to indicate a prolonged public disagreement or debate. For example: "There's "a controversy between" scientists regarding the effects of climate change."

What's a simple alternative to "a controversy between"?

Alternatives include "a dispute involving", "a conflict involving", or "a disagreement among". The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey about the nature of the disagreement.

How does "a controversy between" differ from "a debate between"?

"A debate" suggests a formal discussion, while "a controversy" implies a more widespread and often less structured disagreement. "A debate between" is generally more contained and regulated.

When is it appropriate to use "a controversy between"?

Use "a controversy between" when describing a significant public disagreement that involves multiple parties and has a lasting impact. Avoid using it for minor or personal arguments.