ignite controversy

USAGE SUMMARY

"ignite controversy" is a correct and regularly used phrase in written English.
You may use it when you want to describe how something has led to disagreement or debate between different groups of people. For example, "The proposed policy change has ignited controversy among local activists."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

Some are nevertheless sure to ignite controversy.

The New York Times

This is an ambitious proposal, sure to ignite controversy.

The New York Times - Science

She was not a feminist symbol and nobody had foreseen that selecting her would ignite controversy.

The New York Times

So her name and likeness tend to ignite controversy, particularly on college campuses.

The Washington Post

That said, lexicographers and linguists will tell you that even the most inoffensive, bland picks can attract naysayers or ignite controversy.

The Guardian - Opinion

The veteran journalist has spent more than a decade in the US, where he worked for ABC and MSNBC and continued to ignite controversy.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

They also tend to focus on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) disciplines, as they speak a universal language and are less likely to ignite controversies.

Forbes

It regularly ignites controversy.

The Economist

Dr. Irani, 78, has ignited controversy at Occidental before.

The New York Times

Mr. Schwarzman's charitable contributions have ignited controversy.

The New York Times - Style

Scott Brown's exclusion from the award ignited controversy that highlighted the lack of recognition of women architects more generally.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "ignite controversy" to describe situations where an action or statement quickly leads to significant public disagreement or debate. This phrase is effective when emphasizing the rapid and often intense reaction to a particular event or issue.

Common error

Avoid using "ignite controversy" in situations where the disagreement is mild or expected. This phrase is best reserved for scenarios where the reaction is notably strong or unexpected. Using it in less intense situations can sound hyperbolic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ignite controversy" functions as a verb phrase followed by a noun, indicating the action of starting or intensifying a significant disagreement or debate. This emphasizes the causative relationship between an event and the subsequent controversy. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "ignite controversy" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to describe the action of starting or intensifying a significant disagreement. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it’s suitable for use in various contexts, particularly in News & Media, Science, and Encyclopedias. While alternatives like "spark controversy" or "provoke controversy" exist, "ignite controversy" emphasizes the rapid and often intense nature of the resulting debate. When using this phrase, it’s best to reserve it for scenarios with notably strong reactions to avoid sounding hyperbolic. This analysis provides guidance on using "ignite controversy" effectively and appropriately.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Instigate controversy

Focuses more on the deliberate action of starting a controversy.

Spark controversy

Emphasizes a sudden or immediate start to the controversy.

Provoke controversy

Highlights the act of causing a controversial reaction.

Foment controversy

Suggests actively stirring up or promoting controversy.

Fire controversy

A more figurative way of saying ignite controversy.

Trigger controversy

Implies that something sets off a pre-existing potential for controversy.

Give rise to controversy

Focuses on the emergence of controversy as a result of something.

Touch off controversy

Suggests a sensitive issue causing a quick controversy start.

Set off controversy

Suggests an unintended reaction to an action that causes controversy.

Fan the flames of controversy

Implies increasing the intensity of an existing controversy.

FAQs

How can I use "ignite controversy" in a sentence?

You can use "ignite controversy" to describe how an event or statement quickly leads to significant public disagreement or debate. For example: "The senator's comments on immigration ignited controversy across the political spectrum."

What can I say instead of "ignite controversy"?

You can use alternatives like "spark controversy", "provoke controversy", or "instigate controversy" depending on the context.

Is it better to use "ignite controversy" or "spark controversy"?

Both "ignite controversy" and "spark controversy" are appropriate, but "ignite" suggests a more intense and rapid onset of the disagreement compared to "spark".

What is the difference between "ignite controversy" and "fuel controversy"?

"Ignite controversy" refers to the beginning of a controversy, while "fuel controversy" implies adding to an already existing controversy, increasing its intensity or spread.