in controversy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in controversy" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in legal or formal contexts to refer to a subject or issue that is disputed or under debate. Example: "The case revolves around several key points that are currently in controversy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It was shrouded in controversy.

The New York Times

He lived in controversy.

The New York Times - Magazine

Both institutions began embroiled in controversy.

The New York Times

The Volcker Rule is mired in controversy.

The New York Times

The bill is mired in controversy.

The New York Times

Still, the plan was mired in controversy.

The Economist

When he engag'd in controversy.

Yale University

Rudolph's work started in controversy.

The New York Times

The facts are not in controversy.

Cornell University

He inherits a department mired in controversy.

The New York Times

The Orange Prize, however, revels in controversy.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in controversy" to describe situations where there is public disagreement or dispute. It's appropriate for formal writing and adds a level of seriousness to the subject.

Common error

Avoid using "in controversy" in casual conversations or informal writing. Opt for simpler phrases like "disputed" or "arguable" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in controversy" functions as a prepositional phrase, modifying a noun or clause to indicate that the subject is disputed or debated. As Ludwig AI describes, the phrase is commonly used in formal or legal contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Academia

26%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Science

5%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "in controversy" is a grammatically correct and commonly used prepositional phrase that indicates a state of dispute or debate. As Ludwig AI highlights, it is generally appropriate for formal contexts like news reports, academic papers, and legal documents. While effective in these settings, it is important to avoid overuse in informal conversations. Alternatives like "under dispute" or "subject to debate" can be useful depending on the context. The phrase appears most frequently in News & Media and Academic sources, reflecting its role in discussing contested issues. Understanding these nuances helps ensure precise and appropriate use of "in controversy" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

under dispute

Focuses on the aspect of disagreement or contesting a point.

in question

Emphasizes that something is being examined or doubted.

subject to debate

Highlights the ongoing discussion and differing opinions.

under contention

Stresses the presence of active disagreement or argument.

at issue

Indicates a specific point or matter that is being debated.

open to debate

Similar to “subject to debate” but can imply a more formal discussion.

debatable

Describes something that is open to discussion or argument.

disputed

Simply states that something is not agreed upon or accepted.

contentious

Highlights the tendency to cause argument or disagreement.

polemical

Focuses on the controversial and often aggressive nature of the discussion.

FAQs

How to use "in controversy" in a sentence?

Use "in controversy" to indicate that a topic or issue is subject to disagreement or public debate. For example, "The new policy is "subject to debate" due to its potential impact on the environment".

What can I say instead of "in controversy"?

You can use alternatives such as "under dispute", ""subject to debate"", or "at issue" depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "in controversy" or "under controversy"?

"In controversy" is the correct and more commonly used phrase. "Under controversy" is less frequent and may sound unnatural to native English speakers.

What's the difference between "in controversy" and "controversial"?

"In controversy" describes a state or situation where disagreement exists, while "controversial" describes something that is likely to cause disagreement or argument. Something that is controversial can be "in question".