Word
controversially
Phoneticscon·tro·ver·sial·ly
UK/kˌɒntɹəvˈɜːʃəli/
Adverb of manner
Definition
adv. in a way that causes a lot of disagreement or strong opinions. You use this when people have very different ideas about whether something is right or wrong.
adv. in a manner that gives rise to public disagreement or debate. Often used to describe decisions, statements, or actions that are perceived as contentious or divisive.
Examples
“The team controversially decided to change the rules.”
“The government controversially introduced a new tax on sugary drinks, sparking a heated debate among local businesses.”
“The director controversially cast a relatively unknown actor in the lead role, a choice that divided critics but ultimately earned the film a loyal following.”
Examples
simple
“The team controversially decided to change the rules.”
contextual
“The government controversially introduced a new tax on sugary drinks, sparking a heated debate among local businesses.”
complex
“The director controversially cast a relatively unknown actor in the lead role, a choice that divided critics but ultimately earned the film a loyal following.”
Real-World Examples
“The US Open mixed doubles was controversially revamped last year to include singles stars in a bid to attract more attention to the format.” “One controversy around the neurodiversity approach involves its application to people with what’s sometimes (controversially) referred to as “severe” or “low-functioning” autism.” Word family
NOUN
ADJECTIVE
ADVERB
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944EikenEikenTest in Practical English ProficiencyThe English proficiency test from the Eiken Foundation of Japan, widely taken by Japanese students. Grades run from 5 to 1, with Pre-1 and Pre-2 between them.Pre-1
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
- アルファベット
- 読み方の一覧 →
QR code
englishreference.com/q/controversially