Definitions

controversial

[kon-truh-vur-shuhl] / ˌkɒn trəˈvɜr ʃəl /

ADJECTIVE

at issue

Synonyms

STRONGEST

contentious disputed dubious questionable

WEAK

arguable argumentative contended contestable controvertible debateable disputable disputatious doubtable doubtful dubitable in dispute litigious moot open to discussion open to question polemical suspect uncertain under discussion

Antonyms

STRONGEST

certain definite sure

WEAK

agreeable incontrovertible peaceful uncontroversial undisputed undoubted unquestionable

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

With the long ago departure of the controversial former Clippers owner Donald Sterling, is Arte Moreno now truly the worst owner in sports?

From Los Angeles Times • May 23, 2026

Oleksandr Usyk struck lucky to retain his world heavyweight titles in Egypt with a highly controversial 11th-round stoppage win against boxing novice Rico Verhoeven.

From BBC • May 23, 2026

In addition, Kalshi has removed some of its more controversial markets.

From BBC • May 21, 2026

And as a widely-circulated but controversial blog post by AI investor Matt Shumer External link put it, “If AI is smarter than most PhDs, do you really think it can’t do most office jobs?”

From Barron's • May 21, 2026

Despite his controversial interview with Caesar, many ask about Peeta, assure me that they know he was speaking under duress.

From "Mockingjay" by Suzanne Collins

Vocabulary lists containing controversial

Against All Odds: Contra and Counter

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Nothing But the Truth

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100 SAT words Beginning with "C"

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!