ignite controversy
[ɪɡˈnaɪt ˈkɑːntrəvɜːrsi]
verb phrase
acender controvérsia; desencadear controvérsia; provocar controvérsia
1. to cause or spark a heated public disagreement or debate about a topic
The politician's comments ignited controversy among voters across the country.
Os comentários do político desencadearam controvérsia entre eleitores em todo o país.
2. to trigger intense public criticism or argument about a statement, action, or event
The film's release ignited controversy for its explicit content.
O lançamento do filme provocou controvérsia por seu conteúdo explícito.
This phrase is frequently used in news media, social media discourse, and political commentary in both the USA and Brazil. It reflects how modern public discourse is shaped by rapid information sharing and social media amplification. In Brazilian Portuguese, 'acender' (literally 'to ignite') carries the same metaphorical weight as in English, making it a popular journalistic choice.
NYC Slang
stir the pot; beef something up; cause beef
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