controversy

Pronunciation: /ˈkɑn.tɹəˌvɝ.si/

Reading level: hard

Estimated CEFR level: B2 — Upper-Intermediate

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. noun a contentious speech act; a dispute where there is strong disagreement

Etymology

From Middle English controversie, from Old French controversie, from Latin contrōversia (“debate, contention, controversy”), from contrōversus (“turned in an opposite direction”).

In classic literature

Synonyms

contention, contestation, disputation, disceptation, tilt, argument, arguing

Semantic network

Broader (hypernyms)
dispute
Narrower (hyponyms)
polemic, sparring, fight, firestorm, argy-bargy

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