focus of controversy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "focus of controversy" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a subject or issue that is the center of debate or disagreement among people. Example: "The proposed legislation became the focus of controversy, sparking heated discussions in the community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 human-written examples

Being a focus of controversy suited her temperament.

The New York Times

Despite its successes, Operation Condor has been the focus of controversy.

The New York Times

That trade, which earned Goldman huge profits, became the focus of controversy.

The New York Times

The library's heating system, a coal-fired furnace installed around 1920, is currently the focus of controversy.

The New Yorker

Abortion, a familiar issue in elections past, has again emerged in recent days as a focus of controversy.

The New York Times

Democratic poll-workers distributed warnings at polling places.Polling places became a last-minute focus of controversy in the race.

The Economist

INTERMUNE has rights to another experimental drug besides Actimmune for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, and it, too, is the focus of controversy.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

The restaurant has been the focus of controversies about the numerous associates of Mayor Daley who are investors, its exclusive location and lucrative contract terms.

Wikipedia

Lately the flag has become the focus of intensifying controversy.

The New York Times

But Aharon Barak, chief justice of the Supreme Court, figures almost as prominently as a focus of political controversy.

The Economist

He led the bank through the financial crisis, avoiding a direct government bailout, but was the focus of recurrent controversy.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "focus of controversy", ensure that the context clearly identifies the specific issue or topic that is generating disagreement or debate. Provide sufficient background information so that readers understand the nature and scope of the controversy.

Common error

Avoid using "focus of controversy" without specifying what the controversy entails. Ensure that the subject and nature of the controversy are clearly stated to avoid ambiguity and provide context for your audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "focus of controversy" primarily functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject complement or object of a sentence. It identifies a specific topic or issue that is the center of disagreement or debate. As shown by Ludwig, the phrase is used to highlight what is being contested.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

15%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "focus of controversy" is a commonly used noun phrase that denotes a subject or issue at the center of disagreement or debate. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and frequently found in diverse contexts, particularly in news, science, and encyclopedic sources. While versatile, clarity is key: ensure you specify the nature and subject of the controversy. Alternatives such as "bone of contention" or "subject of debate" can provide nuance, but "focus of controversy" remains a reliable and widely understood choice for both formal and informal communication. The phrase serves to inform the reader that the subject is generating significant disagreement or debate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

point of contention

This alternative highlights a specific issue that is causing disagreement within a larger context.

contentious issue

This alternative emphasizes the tendency of the issue to cause arguments or disputes.

bone of contention

This alternative emphasizes the idea of a persistent and often bitter disagreement.

point of argument

This alternative directly indicates that the issue is a source of opposing viewpoints.

matter of dispute

This alternative suggests a formal or legal disagreement.

source of conflict

This alternative emphasizes the potential for the disagreement to escalate into active conflict.

subject of debate

This alternative is a more neutral and general way to describe a topic under discussion, without necessarily implying strong disagreement.

issue in question

This alternative is a more formal and detached way to refer to a disputed matter.

area of disagreement

This alternative is a broader term that encompasses any point where people hold differing views.

hot topic

This alternative implies that the subject is currently popular and intensely debated.

FAQs

How can I use "focus of controversy" in a sentence?

You can use "focus of controversy" to describe a topic that is the center of disagreement or debate. For example, "The new policy quickly became the focus of controversy among employees."

What are some alternatives to "focus of controversy"?

You can use alternatives like "bone of contention", "subject of debate", or "point of contention" depending on the specific context.

Is "focus of controversy" formal or informal?

"Focus of controversy" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, in very informal settings, you might consider using more casual alternatives like "hot topic".

What makes something a "focus of controversy"?

Something becomes a "focus of controversy" when it is the subject of significant disagreement, debate, or opposition, often involving conflicting opinions or interests.