Spanish Conversation · Level 53
75 words
Spanish word
polémica
Pronunciation
IPA/poˈlemika/
Meaning
- feminine nouncontroversy
Example
Los comentarios en el artículo generaron polémica entre los vecinos.
The comments in the article caused controversy among the neighbors.
More examples
El comentario del actor desató polémica en redes sociales.
The actor's comment sparked controversy on social media.
Core concept
Heated public debate that sharply divides opinion.
Common phrases
desatar polémica
spark controversy
causar polémica
cause controversy
polémica en redes
controversy on social media
Similar words
discusión: Informal spoken interaction where people exchange differing opinions or arguments.
debate: Formal discussion that seeks to clarify issues through orderly presentation of arguments.
controversia: Controversial public argument that draws notice due to strongly opposed opinions.
Definition in Spanish
Asunto controvertido que provoca un debate público en el que se enfrentan posturas opuestas.
Word origin
From Greek polemikos 'warlike', via French polémique, the word became a noun for a public dispute.
Usage tips
- Used mainly for public or media disputes (politics, culture); common verbs are generar, provocar or desatar polémica, and it rarely describes a private quarrel.