How Do You Spell HOT BUTTON?

Pronunciation: [hˈɒt bˈʌtən] (IPA)

The spelling of the compound word "hot button" can be explained using IPA phonetic transcription. The "h" at the beginning is pronounced as /h/, and the "o" sound is pronounced as /ɑ/. The "t" sounds are pronounced as /t/, followed by the "b" sound pronounced as /b/. The "u" sound in "button" is pronounced as /ʌ/, and then the word ends with the "n" sound pronounced as /n/. Therefore, the correct spelling of "hot button" is represented phonetically as /hɑt ˈbʌtn/.

HOT BUTTON Meaning and Definition

1. Hot button refers to a sensitive or controversial topic or issue that elicits strong emotional reactions, intense arguments, or provokes instant responses. It is a figurative term that originated from buttons that could be pressed or pushed to create a reaction, typically in the context of a political or social conversation. The term "hot" emphasizes the heightened emotional charge associated with these topics.

   Hot button issues can vary greatly depending on the cultural, social, or political context and personal beliefs of individuals. These issues often tap into fundamental values, ideologies, or deeply held beliefs, and tend to divide people into distinct and vehemently opposing camps. Examples of hot button topics include abortion, gun control, immigration, racial discrimination, religious freedom, climate change, and same-sex marriage.

   Debates surrounding hot button issues often involve strong emotions, passionate arguments, and deep-seated convictions. Discussions on these topics can quickly escalate into heated arguments and intense exchanges due to the deeply ingrained nature of personal beliefs. Due to their controversial nature, these issues often generate widespread attention in the media, public discourse, and political campaigns, attracting significant public interest, engagement, and polarization.

   The term "hot button" also implies the potential for triggering or provocative language, actions, or events related to these sensitive topics. It suggests that mentioning or approaching these subjects may immediately ignite intense reactions, prompting heated discussions, and provoking strong emotional responses from individuals involved in the conversation.

Common Misspellings for HOT BUTTON

• hot-buton

Etymology of HOT BUTTON

The term "hot button" originated in the mid-20th century and is believed to be rooted in the language of electronics. In the context of electronics, a "hot" button refers to a switch or control that is powered or energized. This switch is usually used to activate or deactivate a particular function or component.

Over time, this term was metaphorically adopted to describe controversial or emotionally charged topics or issues that could easily trigger a strong reaction from people. Just like a "hot" electrical switch has the potential to elicit a response, a "hot button" issue has the potential to provoke intense emotions or ignite passionate debates.

Idioms with the word HOT BUTTON

• hot button A hot button is a sensitive or controversial issue that elicits strong emotions or reactions from a person or group of people. It can also refer to a topic that is likely to provoke anger, debate, or strong opinions when discussed.
• a hot button A "hot button" is a sensitive or controversial issue that tends to provoke strong emotions or reactions from people.