A controversy is a public disagreement about an issue.
The idea
Use controversy over or controversy about an issue. The plural is controversies.
Examples
- The new bridge caused controversy.
- The controversy over the park continues.
- A proposal sparked controversy among residents.
- The museum avoided controversy by explaining its choice.
- The article describes two controversies about energy.
- Public controversy delayed the vote.
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Watch out
A controversy is disagreement, not necessarily a personal quarrel.
Try it yourself
Choose the word that completes the sentence. There is controversy ___ the new tax. (over / under)
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over
over introduces the issue.
Choose the word that completes the sentence. Several ___ arose during the campaign. (controversy / controversies)
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controversies
controversies names several disputes.
Choose the word that completes the sentence. The announcement ___ controversy. (sparked / slept)
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sparked
sparked means the proposal started the disagreement.
Practice round
Answer questions and rebuild English sentences to practise. Your score is shown.
Choose the word that completes the sentence. There is controversy ___ the new tax. (over / under)
Choose the word that completes the sentence. Several ___ arose during the campaign. (controversy / controversies)
Choose the word that completes the sentence. The announcement ___ controversy. (sparked / slept)
Tap the words in the right order.
Tap the words in the right order.
Tap the words in the right order.
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Describe a public issue that caused disagreement.