Controversial issue WSJ Crossword Clue
Crossword Answer
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explanationWSJ Crossword January 13 2026 Answers
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36A
Impossible-to-follow speech, and a hint to the ends of 17-, 27-, 48- and 60-Across Crossword Clue
WORDSALAD
SOT
ORIGIN
HOTPOTATO
DANSON
SSN
VIOLIN
LOWHANGINGFRUIT
EDAM
TREK
DERM
HENS
ASPEN
EROSION
TOOLATE
PICA
OSCAR
RIBCAGE
CREATES
HERDERS
STONERS
USE
SRO
LENO
BANDIT
TOWELS
GUSTO
DOH
MEDALED
ALAMODE
GASPUMP
ITSTIME
THINKS
NINTH
OGRE
LIEN
ORES
FDA
TEN
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Frequently Asked Questions About This Clue
The most common and recent 9-letter answer for "Controversial issue" is HOTPOTATO.
The phrase 'hot potato' refers to a sensitive or controversial issue that is difficult to handle or discuss, much like a hot potato that is difficult to hold. The clue uses the metaphorical sense of the term to describe a topic that people might avoid due to its contentious nature.
This clue was last seen in the WSJ Crossword on January 13, 2026.
A hot potato is a contentious or difficult issue that people avoid dealing with.
The clue “Controversial issue” is a classic crossword staple, frequently appearing in puzzles like the WSJ crossword. For the puzzle dated January 13 2026, the definitive 9-letter answer is: HOTPOTATO.
Expert Tip: When you’re stuck, try to analyze the structure of the clue itself. Is it a direct definition, a pun, a fill-in-the-blank, or a pop culture reference? Identifying the type of clue you’re dealing with is a key skill for improving your solving speed.
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