intense controversy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "intense controversy" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or topic that is highly debated or disputed, often provoking strong opinions and emotions. Example: "The new policy sparked intense controversy among community members, leading to heated discussions at the town hall meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The answers are the subject of intense controversy.

The New York Times

The use of the word "addiction" in the context of sex generated intense controversy.

The New Yorker

The origins of the crisis remain a subject of intense controversy.

The New York Times

Another book that sparked intense controversy was Before the Dawn, Sinn Fein leader Gerry Adams's autobiography.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Vietnam, Central and Latin America and the Iran-contra affair all provoked intense controversy.

The Guardian

That fact has rendered cochlear implants the subject of intense controversy.

The New York Times - Health

The subject of intense controversy over its long-term effects and capacity for inducing schizophrenia.

The Guardian

But there was intense controversy during normal time with just under five minutes to go.

The Guardian - Sport

Reform of geometry education was a source of intense controversy in the later part of the century.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

21] his new proposal to provide Federal hospital insurance for the aged, a recommendation certain to provoke intense controversy.

The New York Times

The memorandums sparked intense controversy, and Judge Bybee's successors in the Bush administration withdrew several of them.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the specific nuance you want to convey. Alternatives like "heated dispute" or "fierce debate" might be more appropriate depending on the context.

Common error

Avoid using "intense controversy" repeatedly in a single piece of writing, as it can create an overly dramatic tone. Vary your language by using synonyms like "sharp disagreement" or "heated debate" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "intense controversy" functions as a noun phrase, where 'intense' modifies the noun 'controversy'. It describes a state of heightened disagreement or dispute. As Ludwig AI confirms, this expression is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

20%

Academia

16%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

14%

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "intense controversy" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe situations marked by significant disagreement and strong public debate. As indicated by Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and its usage spans across diverse contexts, particularly in news, science, and academic spheres. When writing, it's important to consider the emotional impact of this phrase and to ensure it aligns with the overall tone. Alternatives like "fierce debate" or "heated dispute" may provide suitable substitutes, depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. As its frequency suggests, "intense controversy" is a widely recognized and readily understood expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fierce debate

Replaces 'controversy' with 'debate', emphasizing the argumentative aspect. It also carries a similar intensity.

sharp disagreement

Indicates a clear and distinct difference in opinion, potentially leading to conflict.

heated dispute

Substitutes both 'intense' and 'controversy' to suggest a strong disagreement with emotional undertones.

bitter dispute

Highlights the negativity and resentment associated with the disagreement.

major contention

Replaces 'controversy' with a more formal term, suitable for academic or legal contexts.

considerable argument

Focuses on the presence of a significant debate or disagreement.

raging argument

Emphasizes the emotional and often public nature of the disagreement.

strong disagreement

Offers a more general alternative, suitable when the context does not require a charged tone.

deep division

Focuses on the separation and opposing viewpoints caused by the issue.

serious conflict

Highlights the conflict aspect, implying potential negative consequences.

FAQs

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

You can use "intense controversy" to describe a situation characterized by strong disagreement and public debate, as in "The proposed development sparked "intense controversy" within the community".

What are some alternatives to saying "intense controversy"?

Some alternatives include "fierce debate", "heated dispute", or "strong disagreement", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "intense controversy" formal or informal?

"Intense controversy" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, in highly formal writing, consider slightly more nuanced alternatives such as "major contention".

What makes a controversy "intense"?

A controversy becomes "intense" when it involves strong emotions, significant public attention, and deeply divided opinions among different groups or individuals. It often implies that the issue is actively and passionately debated.