a very controversial issue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a very controversial issue" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a topic that generates significant disagreement or debate among people. Example: "The proposed law on climate change has become a very controversial issue, dividing public opinion across the country."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

This is a very controversial issue.

Stanford University

It was a very controversial issue.

The New York Times

Wading into what is a very controversial issue inside Myanmar, Mr. Ban appeared to call for citizenship for the group.

The New York Times

The doomsday scenario, in which a massive strategic nuclear attack by the Russians is answered by an equal American response is not a very controversial issue.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

"This is a very controversial issue" that in this case balances ANC's bid to reorganize against the rights of Hertz and Avis as competitors, Mr. Zohn said.

The New York Times

"The cherry trees have been a very controversial issue — and this is understandable," said Arthur Selkowitz, the chairman of the Mill River Collaborative.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

A very controversial topic.

Huffington Post

Cathleen Morgan, the chairwoman of the Board of Education, called it "a very very controversial issue and one that people are very passionate about".

The New York Times

One very controversial issue revolves around "gene-editing" which is simply genetic engineering through which DNA is inserted, deleted or replaced in the genome of an organism using engineered nucleases, and has been used in biomedical research and medicine.

Forbes

By agreeing to combine CBS and Viacom now, Wall Street's focus will suddenly shift from the AT&T-Time whichr deal, whash hasuddenlyly become too-hot-to-handle and very controversial issue, to Leslie Moonves, architect of the next media/entertainment star enterprise in the making.

Forbes

"Sometimes you have to take a very firm position on very controversial issues.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "a very controversial issue", ensure that the context clearly indicates the specific nature of the controversy and the differing viewpoints involved.

Common error

Avoid using "a very controversial issue" as a generic placeholder. Always provide context or specific details about the issue to give the phrase weight and relevance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a very controversial issue" functions as a noun phrase, acting as the subject complement or object in a sentence. Ludwig AI examples show it describing topics sparking disagreement.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Academia

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a very controversial issue" is a common way to describe a topic that sparks significant disagreement and debate. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and widely used. Analysis of its usage shows it's most frequently found in News & Media, Academia and Science contexts. When using this phrase, it's important to provide specific details about the nature of the controversy to add weight to the description. Alternatives include "a highly debated topic" or "a contentious matter", which can be more fitting depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a highly contentious matter

Emphasizes the argumentative nature of the issue.

a deeply divisive subject

Highlights the splitting effect the issue has on opinions.

a hotly debated topic

Focuses on the active and energetic discussion surrounding the issue.

a sensitive area of discussion

Indicates the issue requires careful and tactful handling.

a thorny problem

Implies the issue is difficult and complex to resolve.

a disputed point

Highlights that the issue is under disagreement or challenge.

a matter of considerable disagreement

Stresses the significant level of dissent involved.

an issue fraught with controversy

Emphasizes the presence of widespread disagreement and dispute.

a polarising topic

Highlights how the topic creates opposing views or groups.

a contentious point of discussion

Focuses on the argument-provoking nature of the issue.

FAQs

What does "a very controversial issue" mean?

It refers to a topic or subject that sparks significant disagreement and debate, often involving strong opposing viewpoints.

How can I use "a very controversial issue" in a sentence?

For example, "The new policy on immigration has become "a very controversial issue", dividing public opinion sharply."

What are some alternatives to "a very controversial issue"?

You can use alternatives such as "a highly debated topic", "a contentious matter", or "a divisive subject" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "a very controversial issue" in writing?

Use it when you want to emphasize that a topic is subject to strong disagreement and differing opinions. Be sure to provide enough context for the reader to understand the nature of the controversy.