heated topic

USAGE SUMMARY

"heated topic" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to a subject of discussion that is controversial and/or provokes strong emotions. For example, "The issue of immigration is a very heated topic in this country right now."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

44 human-written examples

That's always a heated topic of debate.

The New York Times

Professors, pundits, and journalists weigh in on a heated topic.

The New Yorker

The colonial misuse of Sámi symbols is a heated topic here in the north.

The Guardian

The issue of pay for the judicial branch has been a heated topic at times.

The Washington Post

The appeals court's ruling is careful and convincing on this heated topic.

The New York Times

As of today, the issue of surveillance continues to be a heated topic.

University of California, Berkeley

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

16 human-written examples

Matters of tempo in 19th-century piano music are heated topics among those who visit the collection.

The New York Times - Arts

A short silence followed, and, without any answer to my question, the discussion moved on to other, less heated topics.

The Washington Post

However, issues of identity and language were among the lowest ranked in both eastern and western Ukraine, far behind the heated topics of jobs, unemployment, and welfare services.

Stanford University

Israel policy and AIPAC are always heated topics among U.S. Jews but Donald Trump's fiery speech to the powerful AIPAC lobby Monday elicited intense debate outside the downtown area, inside the hall and on social media.

The Washington Post

Around the country, from the stands to the locker rooms to the executive offices of television networks, the possibility that the tournament will grow, most likely to 96 teams, has become one of this March's most heated topics.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "heated topic," be mindful of your audience and choose neutral language to present the issue, avoiding biased or inflammatory wording.

Common error

While "heated topic" is generally acceptable, avoid overusing it in very informal settings like casual conversations with friends. Consider using more relaxed alternatives such as "big debate" or "major disagreement" to keep the tone appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "heated topic" functions as a noun phrase, where "heated" modifies the noun "topic". It describes a subject that is the source of strong emotions and considerable disagreement. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

18%

Academia

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "heated topic" is a commonly used and grammatically sound expression that effectively conveys the idea of a controversial or intensely debated subject. Ludwig AI validates its use across various contexts, with a prevalence in news, science, and academic writing. When using the phrase, remember to consider your audience and the level of formality required. Alternatives like "controversial subject" or "sensitive subject" can be used depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. Always aim for neutrality when discussing these topics, and be aware of the potential for strong emotions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

controversial subject

Focuses on the polarizing nature of the subject.

contentious issue

Highlights the disputable nature of the issue.

sensitive subject

Emphasizes the delicate or potentially offensive nature of the topic.

divisive issue

Highlights that the topic is likely to cause disagreement and separation.

hot-button issue

Indicates a topic that is currently very popular and highly debated.

debatable point

Focuses on the fact that the point is open to discussion and argument.

matter of contention

Stresses the aspect of dispute and disagreement.

polemical question

Highlights the controversial and often aggressive nature of the question.

vexed question

Highlights the complexity and difficulty associated with the issue.

thorny problem

Emphasizes the challenging and unpleasant aspect of the issue.

FAQs

How can I use "heated topic" in a sentence?

You can use "heated topic" to describe a subject that causes strong feelings and disagreements. For example, "Gun control is a "heated topic" in the United States".

What's a more formal alternative to "heated topic"?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "contentious issue" or "controversial subject", which maintain the sense of strong disagreement but sound more professional.

Is it always appropriate to use "heated topic"?

While generally appropriate, "heated topic" might be too strong for situations requiring extreme sensitivity. In such cases, consider milder terms like "sensitive subject".

What are some common collocations with "heated topic"?

Common collocations include "a "heated topic" of debate", "a "heated topic" in politics", and "a "heated topic" of discussion".