controversial topic

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "controversial topic" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it to refer to a topic that tends to cause disagreement, conflict, or heated debate among people. For example: Climate change is a highly controversial topic.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It's a controversial topic.

The Guardian

Projection: A controversial topic.

The Guardian - Film

And it was a controversial topic.

The New Yorker

-Why is evolution a controversial topic?

The New York Times

Pediatric ototoxicity is a very controversial topic.

Brazilian Journal of Otorhinolaryngology

Unipolar mania is a controversial topic.

Journal of Affective Disorders

Executive compensation is a highly controversial topic.

Stanford University

The situation: Sexuality education is a controversial topic in India.

The Guardian

EVEN among frugal travelers, hitchhiking remains a controversial topic.

The New York Times

The diagnosis of pediatric bipolar disorders is a controversial topic.

Comprehensive Psychiatry

School choice is a controversial topic in the education debate.

International Journal of Educational Development

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When introducing a "controversial topic", acknowledge the different perspectives surrounding it to demonstrate a balanced understanding. For instance, begin by stating, "While there are varying viewpoints on this "controversial topic", it's important to consider..."

Common error

Avoid sensationalizing the topic as more controversial than it is. Instead of saying "This is the most "controversial topic" in history", qualify it with "This is a "controversial topic" with significant debate surrounding..."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "controversial topic" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "controversial" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "topic". As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Academia

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "controversial topic" is a widely used and grammatically correct way to describe a subject that evokes disagreement and debate. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's applicable across various contexts, particularly in news, science, and academia. When using this phrase, it's crucial to acknowledge differing perspectives and avoid overstating the level of controversy. Alternatives like "contentious subject" or "debatable issue" can provide nuanced ways to express similar ideas. Remember to maintain a balanced tone and avoid sensationalizing the topic.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

contentious subject

Replaces "topic" with "subject", implying a matter that is likely to cause argument.

debatable issue

Uses "issue" instead of "topic", suggesting a point of discussion where different views are held.

disputed matter

Replaces "topic" with "matter", emphasizing the contested nature of the subject.

polemical question

Uses "polemical" to highlight the controversial and often aggressive nature of the questioning.

thorny issue

Emphasizes the difficulty and complexity associated with the topic.

sensitive subject

Highlights the delicate or personal nature of the topic, requiring careful handling.

divisive subject

Focuses on the topic's ability to cause division among people or groups.

hot-button issue

Uses a more informal term, "hot-button", to indicate the emotional intensity surrounding the issue.

vexed question

Indicates a question that is difficult to answer and causes much debate and worry.

unsettled question

Highlights that the topic or question hasn't reached a consensus or resolution.

FAQs

How can I introduce a "controversial topic" in a balanced way?

Start by acknowledging different perspectives. For example, say, "While there are varying viewpoints on this "controversial topic", it's important to consider..."

What phrases can I use instead of "controversial topic"?

You can use alternatives such as "contentious subject", "debatable issue", or "disputed matter" depending on the context.

Is it always appropriate to label something as a "controversial topic"?

Not always. Ensure there's genuine disagreement and debate before labeling a subject as a "controversial topic". Some topics may be sensitive but not necessarily controversial.

How do I avoid overstating the controversy around a "controversial topic"?

Avoid exaggerations like "the most "controversial topic" in history". Instead, qualify it by saying, "This is a "controversial topic" with significant debate surrounding..."