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
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of controversial
The drop follows a wave of controversial policy moves, including the passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill and expanded tariffs on Canadian imports.
—
Amanda Castro
hannah Parry, MSNBC Newsweek, 15 July 2025
First up is that Midwestern classic, the scene-stealer of many a brunch and the controversial chili accompaniment, the cinnamon roll.
—Kansas City Star, 14 July 2025
The timing coincides with Iran's controversial suspension of cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and reports of major internet disruptions across the country, suggesting ongoing tensions and potential preparations for future diplomatic or military developments.
—Adeola Adeosun, MSNBC Newsweek, 6 July 2025
Delegates avoided any controversial subjects that might trigger Washington’s ire, analysts said.
—semafor.com, 6 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for controversial
Amanda Castro
hannah Parry, MSNBC Newsweek, 15 July 2025
First up is that Midwestern classic, the scene-stealer of many a brunch and the controversial chili accompaniment, the cinnamon roll.
—Kansas City Star, 14 July 2025
The timing coincides with Iran's controversial suspension of cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and reports of major internet disruptions across the country, suggesting ongoing tensions and potential preparations for future diplomatic or military developments.
—Adeola Adeosun, MSNBC Newsweek, 6 July 2025
Delegates avoided any controversial subjects that might trigger Washington’s ire, analysts said.
—semafor.com, 6 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for controversial
Recent Examples of Synonyms for controversial
Adjective
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After a six-hour contentious hearing in 2023, the CPUC approved both companies to operate at any hour of the day and charge for rides.—
Lia Russell
Updated July 14,
Sacbee.com,
14 July 2025
-
With billions allocated for new hiring, the scale of ICE's growth could reshape immigration enforcement for years to come and will likely remain at the center of a contentious national debate.—
Billal Rahman,
MSNBC Newsweek,
14 July 2025
Adjective
-
Turkeys may become aggressive and territorial if comfortable in suburban areas.—
Jalen Williams,
Freep.com,
10 July 2025
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With that in mind, it's expected the Dodgers will be very aggressive at the trade deadline.—
Zach Pressnell,
MSNBC Newsweek,
10 July 2025
Cite this Entry
“Controversial.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/controversial. Accessed 22 Jul. 2025.
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