an object of controversy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an object of controversy" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a subject or issue that is widely debated or disputed. Example: "The new policy has become an object of controversy among the community members, sparking heated discussions at town hall meetings."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

Constant phase element is still an object of controversy in the literature.

Electrochimica Acta

But the structure intended to settle a controversy has become an object of controversy itself.

The New York Times - Arts

The head was long an object of controversy among paleontologists, and the Museum is renovating its collection of dinosaurs.

The New Yorker

Yet as Francine Prose writes in "Anne Frank: The Book, the Life, the Afterlife," the diary remains an object of controversy as well as admiration.

The New York Times - Books

A hundred years later, the solid gold Waltham pocket watch, purchased in 1907 and engraved with the initials J.J.A., has become an object of controversy.

The New York Times

A solid gold Waltham pocket watch, purchased in 1907 and engraved with the initials J.J.A., for John Jacob Astor IV, has become an object of controversy.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

Will nanotechnology become an object of harsh controversy like genetically modified organisms?

The Guardian

Q: Although your prose has been universally praised, you remain an object of considerable controversy.

The New York Times - Magazine

In 1989, Serrano's photograph became an object of national controversy here when it was shown in an exhibit in North Carolina.

The New Yorker

Accused of collaborating with the Nazis, he was an object of heated controversy after World War II; his 1949 recital in New York City was canceled because of violent public protest.

Britannica

At the book's center is Pius XII, whose inaction and failure to condemn German atrocities, particularly the massacre of 335 innocent Italians in the Ardeatine Caves in March 1944 -- a deadly German reprisal for a highly successful partisan attack on a column of SS police -- remain an object of fierce controversy to this day.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "an object of controversy" to clearly indicate that something has become a subject of widespread disagreement or public debate. Ensure the context provides enough information about what is causing the controversy.

Common error

Avoid using "an object of controversy" in very casual or informal settings. Simpler phrases like "a hot topic" or "something people disagree about" might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an object of controversy" functions as a noun phrase that identifies a subject or issue as something that is widely debated or disputed. It serves to highlight the contentious nature of the topic, marking it as something that generates disagreement.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

29%

Encyclopedias

14%

Less common in

Academia

7%

Wiki

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "an object of controversy" is a noun phrase used to describe a subject that has become widely debated or disputed. Ludwig AI identifies it as grammatically correct and usable in various contexts. While the phrase is most common in news and media, it also appears in scientific and encyclopedic sources, indicating a generally neutral to formal register. Alternatives include "a contentious issue" or "a disputed topic". When using the phrase, ensure that the context clearly explains the reasons behind the controversy, and avoid overusing it in very informal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a point of controversy

It focuses on the controversial nature.

a contentious issue

Focuses on the issue being disputed, rather than something becoming the subject of dispute.

a disputed topic

Highlights the disagreement surrounding the subject.

a matter of contention

Emphasizes the conflict and disagreement.

a point of disagreement

Underlines the specific aspect where opinions diverge.

a source of debate

Focuses on its capacity to generate discussion.

a sensitive subject

Indicates the potential for emotional or difficult discussion.

a thorny question

Suggests complexity and difficulty in resolving the issue.

a polarizing topic

Highlights the divisive nature of the subject.

a bone of contention

Implies a long-standing and unresolved disagreement.

FAQs

How can I use "an object of controversy" in a sentence?

You can use "an object of controversy" to describe something that has become widely debated or disputed. For example, "The proposed building development has become "an object of controversy" among local residents".

What are some alternatives to "an object of controversy"?

You can use alternatives like "a contentious issue", "a disputed topic", or "a matter of contention" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "an object of controversy" or "a subject of controversy"?

Both "an object of controversy" and "a subject of controversy" are grammatically correct and can be used interchangeably. The choice depends on personal preference and the specific nuance you want to convey.

What makes something "an object of controversy"?

Something becomes "an object of controversy" when it sparks significant disagreement, debate, or public dispute. This can be due to differing opinions, ethical concerns, or potential impacts on various groups.