controversial subject

[/ˌkɑːntrəˈvɜːrʃəl ˈsʌbdʒɪkt/]
nounpl: controversial subjects
assunto controverso
1. A topic or issue that provokes disagreement, debate, or strong opposing opinions among people
Climate change remains a controversial subject in political discussions.
Mudanças climáticas continuam sendo um assunto controverso nas discussões políticas.
2. A matter that is likely to cause argument or dispute due to differing viewpoints or moral considerations
Religion and politics are often controversial subjects at family gatherings.
Religião e política são frequentemente assuntos controversos em reuniões familiares.
3. An issue characterized by public disagreement and debate, often involving sensitive or polarizing perspectives
The use of artificial intelligence in healthcare is becoming an increasingly controversial subject.
O uso de inteligência artificial na saúde está se tornando um assunto cada vez mais controverso.
In both Brazilian and American contexts, controversial subjects are common in media, politics, and social discussions. Brazilians often use 'assunto polêmico' (polemic subject) interchangeably with 'assunto controverso.' In the USA, discussing controversial subjects is part of democratic discourse, though the topics vary culturally. In Brazil, subjects like race, religion, and socioeconomic inequality frequently spark heated debates, reflecting the country's diverse and complex social landscape.
NYC Slang
hot-button issue / touchy subject
Synonyms / Sinônimos
contentious issuedisputed matterdebatable topictouchy subjectsensitive issuepolarizing topic
Antonyms / Antônimos
uncontroversial subjectagreed-upon topicsettled matterunanimous issue

Regional Variations

General Brazilian Portuguese
assunto controverso / tema controverso
Most common usage across Brazil
São Paulo
assunto polêmico
Alternative common usage emphasizing the polemical nature
Rio de Janeiro
pauta controversa
Often used in media and political contexts
Portugal
assunto controverso / tema polémico
Similar to Brazil; 'polémico' is also frequently used

Related Words

debatedisputecontroversydisagreementpolarizationdivisivecontentious

Related Idioms & Phrases

stir up controversy
touch a nerve
open a can of worms
a minefield of opinions
tread on thin ice
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