What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
controversial
Example
The new policy on immigration is controversial and has sparked heated debates. [controversial: adjective]
Example
Her remarks on social media were controversial and received a lot of criticism. [controversial: adjective]
polemic
Example
The author's latest book is a polemic against the government's policies on climate change. [polemic: noun]
Example
The politician's speech was full of polemic language, attacking his opponents and their ideas. [polemic: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Controversial is more commonly used in everyday language than polemic. Controversial is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while polemic is less common and is typically used in more formal or academic settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between controversial and polemic?
While both words have negative connotations, polemic is generally considered more formal and academic than controversial. Polemic is often used in scholarly or intellectual debates, while controversial can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
