object of controversy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "object of controversy" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a subject or issue that is the focus of public disagreement or debate. Example: "The new policy has become an object of controversy among community members, sparking heated discussions at town hall meetings."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

But the structure intended to settle a controversy has become an object of controversy itself.

The New York Times - Arts

"But she doesn't herself want to be the object of controversy".

The New York Times

They continued, "In the course of our discussions, the ranking 'World's 50 Best' has been the object of controversy.

The New Yorker

The head was long an object of controversy among paleontologists, and the Museum is renovating its collection of dinosaurs.

The New Yorker

Yet as Francine Prose writes in "Anne Frank: The Book, the Life, the Afterlife," the diary remains an object of controversy as well as admiration.

The New York Times - Books

PVC has been an occasional object of controversy since a link between vinyl chloride monomer and cancer was established in 1973.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

But there seems little end to the use of routine bills as objects of controversy and procedural maneuvers as a means of obstruction.

The New York Times

Accademia Gallery, Florence The long marble frieze, colossal broken statues of reclining gods, and frenzied carvings of centaurs fighting humans that Lord Elgin removed from the Athenian Acropolis two centuries ago are best known today as objects of controversy – which is sad, because we should be marvelling at their genius.

The Guardian - Arts

By contrast, the displays in the Kentucky case, McCreary County v. A.C.L.U., had been placed on the walls of the courthouses by local officials, accompanied in one case by a Christian minister, in 1999, and had immediately become objects of controversy.

The New Yorker

Third, it describes landscape elements as they manifest nationalist sentiment and national goals, while often becoming objects of controversy.

International Encyclopedia of Human Geography

They are, however, both clearly untrue and serious objects of controversy in their own right.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "object of controversy", ensure the context clearly identifies what the "object" is and why it is controversial. Providing specific details enhances clarity and impact.

Common error

Avoid using "object of controversy" when describing minor disagreements. This phrase is most appropriate for issues with significant public debate or ethical implications, not for trivial disputes.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "object of controversy" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms its role in identifying something that is the focus of widespread disagreement or debate.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Encyclopedias

23%

Science

16%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "object of controversy" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe something that is the focus of significant public disagreement, as validated by Ludwig AI. Predominantly found in news, encyclopedias and scientific contexts, this phrase maintains a neutral register while pointing to contentious subjects. When using this phrase, clarify the "object" and the reasons behind its controversial nature. Alternatives like "subject of contention" or "point of contention" offer similar meanings. It is important to use "object of controversy" accurately, reserving it for situations involving substantial public debate rather than minor disputes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

subject of contention

Replaces 'object' with 'subject' and 'controversy' with 'contention', both near synonyms. The meaning remains highly similar.

point of contention

Substitutes 'object' with 'point', focusing on a specific item of disagreement. Preserves a high degree of semantic similarity.

matter of dispute

Emphasizes the disputable nature of the topic, replacing 'controversy' with 'dispute'.

bone of contention

An idiomatic expression indicating the central issue causing disagreement.

source of conflict

Highlights the conflict arising from the subject, shifting the focus slightly from the controversy itself to its effect.

area of disagreement

A more neutral and descriptive way to refer to a contested topic.

topic of debate

Focuses on the discussion and argumentation surrounding the subject.

issue in question

Highlights that there is an issue or point open to discussion or doubt.

hotly debated topic

Emphasizes the intensity and passion associated with the debate.

contentious issue

Highlights the tendency of the issue to cause arguments or disputes.

FAQs

How can I use "object of controversy" in a sentence?

You can use "object of controversy" to describe anything that is the subject of public disagreement or debate. For example, "The new statue quickly became an "object of controversy" due to its unconventional design."

What can I say instead of "object of controversy"?

Alternatives include "subject of contention", "point of contention", or "matter of dispute". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "object of controversy" or "subject of controversy"?

Both "object of controversy" and "subject of controversy" are grammatically correct and widely used. The choice between them often comes down to personal preference, as their meanings are nearly identical.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "object of controversy"?

Use "object of controversy" when the item or issue is genuinely contentious, provoking significant disagreement and debate within a community or the broader public.