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What is another word for Controversial? – 179 Controversial Synonyms

    Need another word for Controversial? Use these synonyms of Controversial from our thesaurus to say it differently.


    Synonyms & Similar Words

    disputable disputative arguable debatable contentious polemical provocative sensitive contentious explosive inflammatory sensitive volatile disputed questionable suspect dubious dodgy problematic thorny prickly delicate touchy tricky complex complicated difficult vexed troubled heated passionate emotive divisive polarizing partisan biased prejudiced bigoted intolerant radical subversive heretical unorthodox unconventional nonconformist dissenting rebellious insurrectionary mutinous seditious

    Meaning of Controversial

    The primary meaning of the word "Controversial" is related to something that is causing or likely to cause dispute or disagreement.

    Definitions

    • Giving rise to disagreement or dispute, or a person who causes such disagreement
    • A controversial issue or topic is one that people disagree about or argue over
    • A controversial person is someone whose opinions or actions are opposed by many people

    Etymology of Controversial

    The word "Controversial" originates from the Latin words "controversia," meaning "dispute" or "debate," and "controversus," meaning "disputed" or "argued," which is derived from "contro-" (against) and "versari" (to turn or be turned), with the suffix "-al" forming an adjective, indicating a relation or pertinence to the root word.

    Example Uses

    • The controversial new policy has sparked heated debates across the country.
    • She's a controversial figure in the art world, known for her provocative paintings.
    • The documentary explores a highly controversial topic, tackling issues that many people avoid discussing.

    Antonyms & Near Antonyms

    uncontroversial noncontroversial inoffensive innocuous harmless mild tame neutral unbiased impartial objective dispassionate unemotional calm serene peaceful conciliatory diplomatic tactful considerate respectful deferential courteous polite agreeable pleasant congenial affable genial friendly amicable concordial harmonious