spur controversy

USAGE SUMMARY

"spur controversy" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It means to cause or ignite a debate or disagreement. Example: The proposed law to raise taxes on the wealthy has sparked controversy among the public, with some arguing it is necessary for social welfare programs while others believe it is unfair and unnecessary.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

His writing could spur controversy.

The New York Times

In a move that is sure to spur controversy, Mr. Grassley recommended repealing or modifying I.R.S. rules that prohibit churches from endorsing political candidates.

The New York Times

In a move expected to spur controversy, the funding will come from increased charges paid by patients to visit a doctor and for diagnostic procedures and will include AU$1 billion from the Health and Hospitals Fund.

Science Magazine

His biography is likely to spur controversy among cultural conservatives, even as it speaks to the most dynamic trends of the past half century -- his open minded and adventurous white Midwestern mother, and the Kenyan Muslim father who abandoned him after his birth.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

The release has also spurred controversy, mostly centred around a piece in Slate by Paul Devlin, "Fact-Check the Rhyme".

The Economist

He spurred controversy — with the "racist" remark and many others — and eventually fell out of favor with Fox, so it came as no surprise when the two sides mutually agreed to split up.

The New York Times

Uttar Pradesh: A senior minister in the Uttar Pradesh cabinet has spurred controversy by telling  some junior-level state officials that stealing is fine as long as they work hard, Hindustan Times reported.

The New York Times

The controlled hunt in such a densely populated pocket of high-end suburbia spurred controversy among homeowners and animal lovers, who said the county should have used other options.

The New York Times

The controlled hunt in this densely populated area has spurred controversy among residents and people who consider hunting cruel, who have urged the county to find other ways to control the deer population.

The New York Times

Note that Facebook appears to be asking users to opt-in as opposed to forcing them to opt out, which is what spurred controversy with the instant personalization feature.

TechCrunch

Sony recently pulled its comedy "The Interview" from screens after hackers threatened moviegoers, spurring controversy and a widespread public debate about the studio's decision.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "spur controversy", consider the intensity of the reaction you wish to convey. Choose synonyms like "ignite" or "provoke" for stronger impacts, or "stir" for milder disagreements.

Common error

Be mindful that "spur controversy" suggests a significant public disagreement, not just a minor disagreement. Use weaker verbs like "prompt debate" if the disagreement is less intense.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "spur controversy" acts as a verb phrase where "spur" functions as a transitive verb, taking "controversy" as its direct object. It expresses the action of causing or initiating a state of disagreement or public debate. Ludwig AI shows that the phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "spur controversy" is a grammatically correct and neutrally registered phrase used to describe the act of causing public disagreement or debate. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability, and it is most commonly found in news and media contexts. When using this phrase, consider the intensity you want to convey, opting for synonyms like "ignite controversy" for stronger effects or "stir up debate" for milder disagreements. Be mindful of the scope of the disagreement; it should be substantial to warrant the use of "spur controversy".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ignite controversy

Focuses on the immediate and forceful commencement of controversy.

provoke controversy

Emphasizes the deliberate act of causing controversy.

spark controversy

Implies a sudden and noticeable beginning of controversy.

incite controversy

Highlights the active encouragement of controversy.

trigger controversy

Suggests a reactive initiation of controversy.

generate controversy

Focuses on the creation of controversy.

foment controversy

Implies the instigation of heated controversy.

arouse controversy

Highlights the awakening or stirring of controversy.

create discord

Shifts the focus to creating general disagreement, not necessarily widespread public debate.

stir up debate

Emphasizes the act of creating a discussion, which may or may not become controversial.

FAQs

What does "spur controversy" mean?

The phrase "spur controversy" means to cause or incite a significant public disagreement or debate.

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

Example: The new policy proposal is likely to "spur controversy" among community members.

What can I say instead of "spur controversy"?

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

What is the difference between "spur controversy" and "trigger controversy"?

"Spur controversy" suggests a more active initiation, while "trigger controversy" implies a reactive response. The former suggests setting something in motion, while the latter means to activate something already set.