hot-button topic

USAGE SUMMARY

"hot-button topic" is a correct and widely used phrase in written English.
You can use this phrase to refer to a subject that arouses strong emotion or debate. Example: "The issue of gun control has become a hot-button topic in the last few years."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

45 human-written examples

Inclusivity in fashion is a hot-button topic right now, because inclusivity everywhere is hot-button topic, especially in light of Donald Trump's election.

Huffington Post

It's a hot-button topic".

The New York Times

Job creation is a hot-button topic for the stimulus package.

The New York Times

This isn't just about disclosing vulnerabilities, a hot-button topic that often distracts from deeper issues.

The New York Times

None wanted to speak on the record, because it's a hot-button topic.

The New York Times

Janssen's comments were published as ageism and sexism remain a hot-button topic in Hollywood.

The Guardian - Film

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

15 human-written examples

Representation isn't just a hot button topic, it's not an intellectual argument.

The Guardian - Tech

And so as with any big, hot button topic, it's easy to forget how individual people have made it possible.

Harvard Business Review

But when they played another miserable game, losing by 28-10, everything spun back to the hot button topic of Fassel's job.

The New York Times - Sports

Exploding batteries weren't the sort of hot button topic some had expected at the event, save for the occasional mention.

TechCrunch

We regret that in election season, immigration reform continues to stand out as a recurring, hot button topic.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about a "hot-button topic", acknowledge the sensitivity and potential for disagreement early in your communication. This can help to establish a respectful tone and encourage more productive dialogue.

Common error

Avoid presenting a "hot-button topic" as having a simple solution or only two sides. Acknowledge the nuances and multiple perspectives to demonstrate a thorough understanding and build credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "hot-button topic" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject complement or object to describe a noun. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase denotes a subject that is controversial and evokes strong emotions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Science

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "hot-button topic" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe a subject that is highly controversial and emotionally charged. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is widely used across various contexts, particularly in news, media, and formal discussions. While "hot-button topic" is generally considered neutral in register, it's essential to be mindful of the sensitivity surrounding such issues and avoid oversimplification. Alternatives like "controversial issue" or "sensitive subject" may be more appropriate depending on the specific context and desired tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

controversial issue

Focuses on the aspect of causing controversy, omitting the intensity implied by "hot-button".

sensitive subject

Emphasizes the delicate nature of the topic and the need for careful handling.

contentious matter

Highlights the disagreement and debate surrounding the topic.

thorny issue

Metaphorically describes the topic as difficult and complex to deal with.

delicate question

Underscores the need for tact and sensitivity when addressing the issue.

divisive subject

Stresses the topic's tendency to create division and disagreement.

polarizing issue

Highlights how the topic pushes people to opposite extremes of opinion.

debatable point

Focuses on the open nature of the discussion and the lack of clear consensus.

vexed question

Emphasizes the problematic and troublesome nature of the issue.

bone of contention

Uses a metaphor to describe the topic as a source of ongoing conflict.

FAQs

How can I use "hot-button topic" in a sentence?

Use "hot-button topic" to describe a subject that is highly controversial and provokes strong emotions. For example, "Immigration reform is a "hot-button topic" in many countries".

What are some alternative phrases for "hot-button topic"?

Alternatives include "controversial issue", "sensitive subject", or "contentious matter", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "hot-button issue" the same as "hot-button topic"?

Yes, "hot-button issue" and "hot-button topic" are often used interchangeably to describe a controversial subject. The choice between them often comes down to personal preference or stylistic considerations.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "hot-button topic"?

It's appropriate to use "hot-button topic" when you want to emphasize the controversial and emotionally charged nature of a particular issue. However, consider using more neutral language if you want to avoid inflaming tensions or presenting a biased view.