controversial argument

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "controversial argument" is correct and can be used in written English.
It refers to an argument or statement that is highly debated or disputed. Example: The controversial argument over gun control has been a topic of discussion for years, with both sides fiercely defending their positions.

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

26 human-written examples

Gagnon's noteworthy and rather controversial argument provides us with a substantially new way of understanding the politics of ethnicity.

Cornell University

This is the controversial argument that Italian political philosopher and noted Machiavelli biographer Maurizio Viroli puts forward in The Liberty of Servants.

Princeton University

Proceeding chronologically, the volume begins with "What Is an Emotion," James's early, notable, and still controversial argument that many of our emotions follow from (rather than cause) physical or physiological reactions.

Harvard University

A young Shiite scholar named Amal Saad-Ghorayeb has advanced what in Lebanon is a controversial argument: that Hezbollah is not merely anti-Israel but deeply, theologically anti-Jewish.

The New Yorker

In what will no doubt be the most controversial argument in this first volume, Mr Strachan makes a convincing case for the outbreak of war in 1914 as a product of blunder and delusion, not of deliberate German aggression.

The Economist

But Mr Everett's most controversial argument, and his biggest challenge to linguistic innatism, is about grammar.Mr Chomsky has argued that "recursion" is the key feature of all human language.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

In this book, Gerald McKenny examines these important yet controversial arguments, which have in turn been criticized by many moral philosophers and professional bioethicists.

Stanford University

But his ouster, combined with the campaign against political correctness started by the right, only helped to strip his controversial arguments of their odious character.

The New York Times

The interview triggered another blue-on-blue attack: the Tory MP Nick Herbert told the Guardian he was disappointed with Gove for making controversial arguments about immigration.

The Guardian

Sitting side by side before a committee of MPs, they mounted impassioned defences of the necessity of bulk interception of communications data – controversial arguments both have continued to make since.

The Guardian

Results clarify the controversial arguments in the literature and conclude that the atomically smooth surface without dangling atoms and durability of the atomic lattice structure of carbon nanotubes makes them a good solid lubricant with an ultra-low coefficient of friction of around 0.01.

Carbon

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When presenting a "controversial argument", ensure you provide sufficient evidence and acknowledge opposing viewpoints to enhance credibility.

Common error

Avoid sensationalizing the controversy surrounding an argument. Presenting it as more extreme than it is can undermine your credibility. Acknowledge nuances and complexities to maintain a balanced perspective.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "controversial argument" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies an argument characterized by significant disagreement or debate, as shown in the examples provided by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Academia

32%

Science

28%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "controversial argument" is a common and correct way to describe an argument that is subject to disagreement or debate. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and appropriate for various contexts. It is most frequently found in news, academic, and scientific sources. When using this phrase, it is important to provide sufficient evidence and acknowledge opposing viewpoints to maintain credibility. Be aware of the potential to overstate the controversy and to present the argument with nuances and complexities for a balanced perspective. Alternative phrases such as "debatable assertion" or "contentious claim" can be used depending on the specific context and emphasis desired.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

debatable assertion

Replaces "argument" with "assertion", highlighting the act of stating a belief forcefully but still open to debate.

contentious claim

Substitutes "controversial" with "contentious" and "argument" with "claim", emphasizing the tendency to cause arguments.

disputable point

Uses "disputable" for "controversial" and "point" for "argument", suggesting the idea is open to being challenged or questioned.

contested idea

Replaces "argument" with "idea", indicating a concept that is being actively disputed or challenged.

polarizing view

Highlights the divisive nature of the argument, suggesting it causes strong opposing opinions.

debatable thesis

Replaces "argument" with "thesis", often used in academic contexts to denote a proposition that is open to debate.

questionable premise

Uses "questionable" instead of "controversial" and "premise" instead of "argument", implying the foundation of the argument is dubious.

sensitive issue

Shifts the focus to the delicate nature of the topic rather than the argument itself.

provocative statement

Emphasizes the intention of the argument to elicit a strong reaction or response.

divisive issue

Highlights the capacity of the argument to create disagreement and separation among people.

FAQs

How can I effectively present a "controversial argument"?

To present a "controversial argument" effectively, provide clear and concise evidence, acknowledge opposing viewpoints, and maintain a respectful tone. Anticipate counterarguments and address them thoughtfully.

What's the difference between a "controversial argument" and a "debatable assertion"?

While both terms refer to ideas open to disagreement, a "controversial argument" often implies a higher degree of public debate and potential disagreement, while a "debatable assertion" may simply be a claim that lacks conclusive proof.

Which sources are best for finding examples of a "controversial argument"?

Reputable news outlets, academic journals, and encyclopedias are reliable sources for examining a "controversial argument". These sources typically offer diverse perspectives and evidence-based analysis.

Are there situations where avoiding a "controversial argument" is preferable?

In certain contexts, such as informal social gatherings or when building rapport, avoiding a "controversial argument" may be wise. Prioritize respectful dialogue and shared understanding over contentious debate in such situations.