controversial
4 antonyms and opposites of controversial, grouped by meaning.
Adjective — Causing or likely to cause strong disagreement or public debate.
Antonyms
How to use controversial
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Latin controversialis, from controversia ("controversy") plus -alis; built from controversy plus -al.
Full origin of controversial →Frequently asked questions
What does “controversial” mean?
The word “controversial” means causing or likely to cause strong disagreement or public debate. In plain terms, likely to spark disagreement or public argument.
How do you pronounce “controversial”?
“Controversial” is pronounced kon-truh-VUR-shuhl (/ˌkɑn.tɹəˈvɝ.ʃəl/ in IPA).
How do you use “controversial” in a sentence?
Here is “controversial” used in a sentence: “The new tax law proved deeply controversial.”
What is another word for “controversial”?
Words with a similar meaning to “controversial” include contentious and contested.
What is the opposite of “controversial”?
The opposite of “controversial” — its antonyms — are incontrovertible, non-controversial, noncontroversial and uncontroversial.
What part of speech is “controversial”?
“Controversial” is an adjective.
Where does the word “controversial” come from?
The word “controversial” comes from Latin. From Latin controversialis, from controversia ("controversy") plus -alis; built from controversy plus -al.
Is “controversial” a common word?
“Controversial” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
What is the difference between 'controversial' and 'contentious'?
Both describe things that cause disagreement. Controversial stresses that something attracts strong public debate or opposition, while contentious highlights that it is likely to cause arguments or is itself a point of dispute, so a contentious issue is one people readily quarrel over.
What is the difference between 'controversial' and 'divisive'?
Controversial means likely to cause strong disagreement or public debate in general. Divisive specifically stresses that something splits people into opposing camps, so a divisive topic actively drives groups apart, while a controversial one simply sparks debate.
Does 'controversial' mean something is bad or wrong?
No. Controversial only means that something causes or is likely to cause strong disagreement or public debate, not that it is bad, false, or immoral. A controversial idea may later prove correct; the word describes the reaction it provokes, not its merit.