a small controversy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a small controversy" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a minor disagreement or dispute that has garnered some attention or discussion. Example: "The article sparked a small controversy among readers regarding the author's interpretation of the events."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

The construction of the athletic center sparked a small controversy among students and faculty members, who argued that the college's limited resources -- the endowment is only $45 million -- could be better used elsewhere.

The New York Times - Sports

With him firmly established as the cook's cook, subsequent books have also enjoyed good sales – though there was a small controversy when he included a non-vegetarian option in a book called The Vegetarian Option.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

And in the final moments of a segment of the NHL Network's "On The Fly" program, host Dan Pollard asked rhetorically, "Does anyone have R.J. Umberger's phone number?" It was Columbus forward Umberger who ignited a small controversy in March by saying the Washington Capitals play "the wrong way" and would be eliminated by a defensive-oriented team.

The New York Times

A small controversy arose in the top of the seventh inning.

Wikipedia

Several of the officers recruited by Ellsworth, however, did not approve and caused a small controversy by resigning their commissions.

Wikipedia

What role Trump would have with the show became something of a small controversy following his election last November.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

A smaller controversy is occurring in Temecula, about 60 miles north of San Diego, involving a typical stew of religion, politics and anti-immigrant sentiment.

The New York Times

Last month, when Paul Ryan's lament over the laziness of "inner-city men" sparked a smaller controversy, he followed his remarks with a barely credible, though nonetheless effective, disclaimer that he wasn't referring to any particular racial group.

The New Yorker

Last year, its organizers eyed the city for a second outpost: Panorama débuted amid small controversy, set to take place on Randall's Island just a few weeks after the long-standing Governors Ball.

The New Yorker

Since the 18th century, with its emphasis on reason as the way to truth, the endeavor has stirred no small controversy.

The New York Times - Books

Four decades after his death, the man known to millions simply as the King, continues to inspire devotion and obsession and the ability to trigger no small controversy.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a small controversy" when you want to acknowledge a disagreement or dispute without exaggerating its importance or impact. It's suitable for situations where the conflict is localized or doesn't involve widespread repercussions.

Common error

Avoid using "a small controversy" to describe situations with serious consequences or widespread impact. Opt for stronger terms like "major conflict" or "significant dispute" when the situation warrants it.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a small controversy" functions as a noun phrase, where "small" modifies the noun "controversy". Ludwig shows it is used to identify a minor disagreement or dispute. The phrase indicates a specific instance of conflict or contention.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Wiki

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a small controversy" is a noun phrase used to describe a minor disagreement or dispute. Ludwig AI indicates that it is grammatically correct and commonly used in news and media, as well as in more informal contexts like wikis. While the phrase acknowledges the existence of a conflict, it also serves to downplay its significance. It is important to use this phrase appropriately, avoiding its use for situations involving serious consequences or widespread impact. Alternatives like "a minor dispute" or "a slight disagreement" can be used depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a minor dispute

Replaces "controversy" with a more neutral term, focusing on the disagreement itself.

a slight disagreement

Similar to "a minor dispute" but emphasizes the mild nature of the disagreement.

a petty squabble

Implies the controversy is trivial or childish.

a minor issue

Downplays the conflict by referring to it as a general "issue".

a low-key debate

Focuses on the discussion aspect, suggesting it's not very intense.

a ripple of disagreement

Uses a metaphor to convey a slight and passing disagreement.

a brief contention

Highlights the short-lived nature of the controversy.

a light dispute

Highlights the effortless dispute or contention.

a fledgling controversy

Highlights that a dispute is just starting.

a storm in a teacup

An idiomatic phrase indicating disproportionate reaction to a trivial issue.

FAQs

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

You can use "a small controversy" to describe a minor disagreement or dispute that has arisen. For example, "The new policy change sparked "a small controversy" among the employees."

What is a synonym for "a small controversy"?

Synonyms for "a small controversy" include "a minor dispute", "a slight disagreement", or "a petty squabble", depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "a small controversy" in formal writing?

Yes, "a small controversy" is generally appropriate for formal writing, although it is important to consider your audience. In some situations, a more formal term like "minor disagreement" might be preferable. However, "a small controversy" is generally considered acceptable.

What's the difference between "a small controversy" and "a major controversy"?

"A small controversy" implies a minor disagreement with limited impact, while "a major controversy" suggests a significant dispute with widespread repercussions. The choice depends on the scale and severity of the issue.