provoke controversy

USAGE SUMMARY

"provoke controversy" is a correct phrase in written English.
You can use it when you want to describe an event or action that has caused a disagreement or debate. For example: "The Prime Minister's new policies have provoked controversy among the public."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Provoke controversy wherever it can be inflamed.

The Guardian - Opinion

Of course the ambition of these reforms will provoke controversy.

The Guardian

The first contraception advertisement ever shown on television did not provoke controversy.

Contraception

Honey Maid knew its ad would provoke controversy, and it did.

The New Yorker

The book, they told him, would provoke controversy and threaten his professional well-being.

The New York Times

Clarkson's ability to provoke controversy while in foreign parts continues unabated.

The Guardian

We would not have imagined that language along those lines would provoke controversy".

The New York Times

The death last week of the Chechen rebel leader Shamil Basayev continues to provoke controversy.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

Characteristically, Mantel provoked controversy.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Such research has provoked controversy.

The New York Times - Science

Some of her decisions provoked controversy.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "provoke controversy" when you want to highlight the act of intentionally or unintentionally causing disagreement or debate on a particular topic.

Common error

Avoid using "provoke controversy" when a situation simply sparks discussion or interest without significant disagreement. Opt for more neutral terms like "spark debate" or "generate discussion" if the intent is not to emphasize contention.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "provoke controversy" typically functions as a verb phrase, where "provoke" is the verb indicating the action of causing something, and "controversy" is the noun representing the disagreement or public dispute. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase follows standard grammar rules and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

81%

Academia

8%

Science

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "provoke controversy" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression, as Ludwig AI affirms. It describes the act of causing disagreement or public debate. Analysis of Ludwig's examples reveals its prevalence in news and media contexts, as well as in academic and scientific writing. While the phrase itself is neutral, it often implies a situation involving strong disagreement or potential conflict. When using the phrase, consider whether a more neutral term like "spark debate" might be more appropriate if the intent is simply to highlight discussion rather than emphasize contention.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

give rise to polemic

Emphasizes the generation of heated or controversial debate.

ignite debate

Focuses on starting a discussion, which may or may not be controversial.

stir up dissent

Highlights the act of creating disagreement or opposition.

draw criticism

Highlights receiving negative feedback or disapproval.

elicit objections

Focuses on the action of obtaining opposition or disagreement.

spark outrage

Emphasizes a strong negative reaction or anger.

invite dispute

Suggests opening the door for disagreement or argument.

generate conflict

Focuses on the creation of conflict, which is broader than controversy.

raise hackles

Implies a reaction of annoyance or defensiveness.

cause a stir

Suggests creating excitement or interest, which may be controversial.

FAQs

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

You can use "provoke controversy" to describe an action, statement, or event that causes strong disagreement or public debate. For example, "The politician's comments provoked controversy across the nation."

What can I say instead of "provoke controversy"?

You can use alternatives like "ignite debate", "stir up dissent", or "spark outrage", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always negative to "provoke controversy"?

While often associated with negative reactions, "provoke controversy" isn't inherently negative. It simply means to cause significant disagreement. In some cases, it can lead to important discussions and positive change.

What's the difference between "provoke controversy" and "spark debate"?

"Provoke controversy" implies a stronger level of disagreement and potential conflict than "spark debate". The latter suggests initiating discussion, while the former suggests initiating heated disagreement.