Synonyms of hot-button

hot-button 1 of 2

adjective

as in contentious

relating to or causing the expression of opposing opinions

the new plan raises a number of hot-button issues that are sure to get voters riled up

Synonyms & Similar Words

• contentious
• controversial
• difficult
• polemical
• argumentative
• tough
• problematic
• thorny
• touchy
• disputatious
• knotty
• delicate
• ticklish
• spiny

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• safe
• undeniable
• indisputable
• noncontroversial
• unquestionable
• incontestable
• uncontroversial
• incontrovertible
• indubitable
• irrefutable
• undisputed
• uncontested

hot button

2 of 2

noun

as in third rail

Related Words

• third rail
• powder keg
• time bomb
• flash point
• volcano
• tinderbox

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of hot-button

Adjective

Commercial driver’s licenses for noncitizens have become a hot-button issue for the DOT after multiple fatal crashes involving noncitizens who were granted licenses despite not meeting federal standards. — Jack Birle, The Washington Examiner, 28 Sep. 2026

Fans throwing objects, especially beer, has become a hot-button issue, and increasingly common, at some country music concerts over the last two years. — Joseph Hudak, Rolling Stone, 25 Sep. 2026

Noun

Harrington’s first comments as mayor stayed light and forward-looking without delving into the city’s hot button issues. — Charlotte Observer, 1 July 2026

The case became a hot button issue at the time amid a rash of disappearances and murders of Black women and girls in the Midwest state. — Michael Loria, USA Today, 30 June 2026