Loading word page…
Updated June 2026
Giving rise to public disagreement or heated debate. It describes something that provokes strong opposing views or arguments.
“The government's controversial decision sparked protests across the country.”
/kɒn.trə.ˈvɜː.ʃəl/
con·tro·ver·sial
Features 'IAL' ending with multiple common vowels; contains 'VERS' pattern
Worth 20 points; 'V' adds scoring value
Look up controversial in an authoritative dictionary for full definitions, pronunciation, and etymology.

Download Word Challenge for unlimited word puzzles, a fresh Daily Challenge, and head-to-head multiplayer. Guess the hidden word in six tries or fewer!