Controversy
/ˈkɒn.trə.vɜːr.si/
nounB2
Definition
Controversy means a situation where people have different opinions and argue or debate strongly about something. It usually involves topics that are important or sensitive, causing disagreement in groups or society.
Was this helpful?
⚡ See It in Action
A public argument or disagreement about an important subject
- •The new law caused a big controversy in the country.
- •There is controversy over the safety of the vaccine.
- •The movie sparked controversy because of its strong scenes.
A topic or issue that causes disagreement and debate
- •Climate change is a major controversy in politics.
- •The controversy about the school uniforms lasted for months.
🧲 Make It Stick
- ✓Think of "controversy" like "argument," but bigger and involving many people, not just two
- ✓Picture a group of people loudly discussing and disagreeing about a news story or a new rule
- ✓It's the feeling when you see people divided into teams, each sure they are right
- ✓Sounds like "CON-tro-versy" → imagine a "contest" where people "versus" (against) each other with words
- ✓Think about famous debates on TV or social media where many opinions clash
- ✓NOT like "disagreement" (which can be small or quiet), controversy is loud and public
- ✓NOT like "fight" (physical), controversy is about words and ideas, not hitting
- ✓NOT like "discussion" (friendly talk), controversy involves strong, sometimes angry disagreement
🔄 Try Other Words
- •Dispute: a serious disagreement or argument (Use when the disagreement is formal or legal)
- •Debate: a formal discussion where people give different opinions (Use when the focus is on talking and exchanging ideas)
- •Conflict: a strong disagreement or fight (Use when the disagreement is more emotional or personal)
🔍 Unboxing
- •Word parts: "contro-" (against, opposite) + "versy" (from Latin "vertere," to turn) → meaning turning against or opposition
- •Etymology: From Latin "controversia," meaning a turning against or dispute
- •Historical development: Used since the 1500s to mean a public disagreement or dispute
- •Modern usage: Commonly used to describe public debates, arguments, or issues that cause strong feelings and disagreement
💭 Reflect & Connect
•What kinds of topics in your country often cause controversy? Why do you think they do?
•How can controversy be both a problem and a way to learn new ideas?
Fill in the blanks with the correct word:
1.The controversy over the new law started because many people ___ its fairness and impact.
2.When a controversy becomes very public, it often leads to ___ and strong opinions.
3.Unlike a quiet disagreement, controversy usually involves ___ groups of people.
4.The politician faced controversy after making a ___ statement that upset many voters.
5.People often enter a controversy to ___ their own views and convince others.
6.In the news, controversy is often shown with ___ and debates on television.
7.A controversy can sometimes lead to ___ changes if enough people agree to act.