1
as in contentious
relating to or causing the expression of opposing opinions
tried to avoid controversial topics over the holiday dinner table
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in aggressive
given to arguing
controversial by temperament, she's the sort of political attack dog who kills all hope of bipartisanship
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
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Recent Examples of controversial
In 2020, the Encinitas City Council approved the construction of a new Sanderling Waldorf school on a controversial spot on Mays Hollow Lane near Quail Gardens Drive.
—
Karen Billing, San Diego Union-Tribune, 24 June 2025
The comedian shared her controversial views during a guest appearance on the 'In Godfrey We Trust' podcast.
—Essence, 23 June 2025
The presence was much larger than when officials detained an immigrant last week and appeared to be a continuation of the new and controversial practice that has troubled attorneys, angered activists and increased fears for immigrants.
—Stephen Hobbs, Sacbee.com, 12 June 2025
But in the 1990s, the U.S. government undertook one of the most controversial wildlife programs in history — capturing wild wolves in Canada and reintroducing them in Idaho and Yellowstone National Park.
—Clark Corbin, Idaho Statesman, 12 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for controversial
Karen Billing, San Diego Union-Tribune, 24 June 2025
The comedian shared her controversial views during a guest appearance on the 'In Godfrey We Trust' podcast.
—Essence, 23 June 2025
The presence was much larger than when officials detained an immigrant last week and appeared to be a continuation of the new and controversial practice that has troubled attorneys, angered activists and increased fears for immigrants.
—Stephen Hobbs, Sacbee.com, 12 June 2025
But in the 1990s, the U.S. government undertook one of the most controversial wildlife programs in history — capturing wild wolves in Canada and reintroducing them in Idaho and Yellowstone National Park.
—Clark Corbin, Idaho Statesman, 12 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for controversial
Recent Examples of Synonyms for controversial
Adjective
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That was displayed during a contentious exchange between Sen. Ted Cruz and conservative media figure Tucker Carlson.—
Rebecca Morin,
USA Today,
19 June 2025
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The topic of banning phones at gigs has been a contentious one over the years, with artists wishing for fans to live in the moment, and fans desiring a chance to memorialize their concert experiences.—
Tyler Jenke,
Billboard,
19 June 2025
Adjective
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But the Cubs and Yankees will likely be much more aggressive in pursuing him than the Brewers will.—
Zach Pressnell,
MSNBC Newsweek,
28 June 2025
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Cross-examination of the victims’ two surviving roommates will likely be aggressive, especially of Dylan Mortensen.—
Jean Casarez,
CNN Money,
28 June 2025
Cite this Entry
“Controversial.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/controversial. Accessed 2 Jul. 2025.
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