Synonyms for

Controversy

Verb / ˈkɑ:ntrʌˌvɜ:si: / Another word for controversy — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

a dispute or argument involving opposing views

Synonyms & similar words

tilt contention contestation disceptation disputation argument arguing dispute argument debate quarrel disagreement conflict strife contention discord wrangle feud polemic bickering wrangling clash difference opposition struggle fight contestation

Synonyms by register

Formal

dispute debate argument disagreement contention

Informal

row fuss tiff kerfuffle brouhaha

Literary

strife quarrel discord

Antonyms

agreement accord harmony peace consensus understanding unity

Common collocations

  • public controversy
  • major controversy
  • heated controversy
  • spark controversy
  • avoid controversy
  • cause controversy
  • address controversy
  • end controversy

Word family

noun controversy
verb controvert
adjective controversial

Usage note

Controversy refers to a prolonged public disagreement or debate. It often implies strong opposing viewpoints and can carry a negative connotation.

Example sentences

  1. The controversy over whether or not to have a dress code at school continues to be a topic of debate.
  2. The controversy surrounding the new housing development has caused a lot of tension in the community.
  3. There was a lot of controversy about whether or not to allow cell phones in the classroom.
  4. The controversy between the two political parties was getting out of control.
  5. The controversy over the use of pesticides in farming is a hotly debated topic.

Quotes

  • I like to have a thing suggested rather than told in full. When every detail is given, the mind rests satisfied, and the imagination loses the desire to use its own wings. - Thomas Bailey Aldrich
  • The absence of alternatives clears the mind marvelously. - Henry Kissinger
  • The controversy is not over whether or not we should eat animals; everyone agrees on that. The controversy is over just how horribly they should be allowed to live and how they should be killed. - Jonathan Safran Foer

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