controversy

noun

con·​tro·​ver·​sy ˈkän-trə-ˌvər-sē How to pronounce controversy (audio)
 British also  kən-ˈträ-və-sē
plural controversies
1
: a discussion marked especially by the expression of opposing views : dispute
The decision aroused a controversy among the students.
2

Examples of controversy in a Sentence

The decision aroused much controversy among the students. The new movie is a subject of controversy. There is controversy surrounding the team's decision to trade the star pitcher. The controversy is over whether he should be fired or not. A controversy arose over the new law.
Recent Examples on the Web Endeavor in 2016 bought a majority stake in UFC, the popular mixed martial arts league that gained a loyal audience and attracted controversy because of its violence. Samantha Masunaga, Los Angeles Times, 20 Mar. 2024 The 2,818-acre development has generated controversy in the area, with residents expressing concerns to the Buckeye City Council about water supply, increased traffic demands and crime. Alexandra Hardle, The Arizona Republic, 19 Mar. 2024 See all Example Sentences for controversy 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'controversy.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Middle English controversie, from Anglo-French, from Latin controversia, from controversus disputable, literally, turned against, from contro- (akin to contra-) + versus, past participle of vertere to turn — more at worth

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of controversy was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near controversy

Cite this Entry

“Controversy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/controversy. Accessed 29 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

controversy

noun
con·​tro·​ver·​sy ˈkän-trə-ˌvər-sē How to pronounce controversy (audio)
plural controversies
1
: a discussion marked especially by the expression of opposing views : dispute
2
Etymology

Middle English controversie, from early French (same meaning), from Latin controversia "act or cause of disagreeing, dispute," literally, "something turned against or to the contrary," from contro-, contra- "against, contrary" and versus "turned," from vertere "to turn" — related to anniversary, converse, divert, versatile

Legal Definition

controversy

noun
plural controversies
1
: a state of dispute or disagreement
suits at common law, where the value in controversy shall exceed twenty dollarsU.S. Constitution amend. VII
2
: a civil action involving a real and immediate dispute between parties with adverse interests

Note: Article III of the U.S. Constitution gives the judiciary the power to decide cases and controversies. Article III's limitation of the judicial power to cases or controversies requires that an action brought in the federal court involve parties with standing to sue and questions that are ripe and not moot.

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