a debatable issue

USAGE SUMMARY

"a debatable issue" is a correct phrase in written English and can be used in a variety of contexts.
For example, "The role of gun control in society is a debatable issue."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

43 human-written examples

This isn't even a debatable issue -- there are no measures to debate.

The New York Times

And this wasn't a debatable issue –we actually had the tapes of Enron traders telling power plants to shut down to drive up prices.

The New York Times

"It is almost always a debatable issue whether the C.E.O. had known of potential improprieties," said Michael Young, a lawyer with Willkie Farr & Gallagher.

The New York Times

Because it requires that one express and support a clear, consistent opinion on a debatable issue, persuasive writing is an excellent medium by which to gauge a student's ability to use language proficiently, apply logical thinking and demonstrate organizational ability.

The New York Times

"It's a debatable issue as to whether you should fix the old or go for a new paradigm," Mr. Marcus said, "because the old software wasn't off the shelf, it was customized".

The New York Times

Whether to adopt commercial tests or develop in-house placement tests is a debatable issue.

Language Testing in Asia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

16 human-written examples

This is a very debatable issue in New Zealand.

International Journal of Emergency Medicine

While the roles of karyopherins and RanGTP in nuclear transport are well established, how the transport cargoes transit through the NPC remains a highly debatable issue [ 8, 9, 16].

Cell and Bioscience

This is indeed an important and debatable issue.

Environmental Health Perspectives

This raises the question — at least for me — as to why we are announcing the athlete concussion-dementia link as a new, and still somewhat debatable, issue some 80 years later.

The New York Times

The revue's solution to the debatable issue of caricature and at what point a broad performance becomes a demeaning minstrel-show parody is to rein in the extremes.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When introducing "a debatable issue" in writing, provide context and background information to help the reader understand the different perspectives.

Common error

Avoid presenting "a debatable issue" as a universally accepted fact. Acknowledge the existence of opposing viewpoints to maintain credibility and foster constructive discussion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a debatable issue" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject complement or object of a sentence. It identifies a topic or matter that is open to discussion and disagreement. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

37%

News & Media

30%

Wiki

13%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

7%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a debatable issue" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase that identifies a topic with differing viewpoints. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. It appears frequently in scientific and news contexts, indicating its suitability for various writing styles. When using this phrase, provide adequate context and avoid presenting it as a universally accepted truth. Alternatives like "a contested point" or "an open question" can offer subtle variations in meaning, depending on the desired emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a contested point

This alternative emphasizes the active disagreement or challenge surrounding the issue.

a contentious matter

This phrase highlights the potential for argument and strong feelings related to the issue.

an open question

This suggests the issue lacks a definitive answer and is still subject to inquiry.

a moot point

Implies the issue is no longer practically relevant or is purely theoretical.

a disputable subject

Focuses on the ability to challenge or disagree with the topic at hand.

an arguable proposition

Emphasizes the structure of the issue as a claim that can be debated.

a controversial topic

Highlights the divisive nature and potential for public disagreement.

a questionable aspect

Focuses on the uncertainty or doubt surrounding a specific part of the issue.

a point of contention

Highlights a specific area within a larger issue that is subject to disagreement.

an unsettled matter

Suggests the issue is unresolved and still subject to deliberation or decision.

FAQs

How can I use "a debatable issue" in a sentence?

You can use "a debatable issue" to introduce a topic that has different viewpoints. For example: "Whether or not to implement stricter gun control laws is "a debatable issue" in many countries."

What are some alternatives to "a debatable issue"?

Alternatives include "a controversial topic", "a disputed matter", or "an open question", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "a debatable issue" or "a controversial issue"?

Both phrases are correct, but "a controversial issue" often implies stronger emotions or wider public attention, while "a debatable issue" simply indicates that there are differing opinions and room for argument.

What makes an issue "a debatable issue"?

An issue is "a debatable issue" when there is no clear consensus and reasonable arguments can be made on multiple sides of the question. It implies that the topic is open to discussion and reasoned disagreement.