a debate on whether

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a debate on whether" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when introducing a topic that will be debated. For example, "Tonight we will be having a debate on whether the death penalty should be abolished."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Montañés declined to enter into a debate on whether Fognini was cramping.

The New York Times - Sports

"There was never a debate on whether I would continue to take my medicine or not.

The Washington Post

There was a debate on whether to include full or shortened addresses, or URL's.

The New York Times - Arts

A debate on whether the e-mail was a hoax was inconclusive.

The New York Times - Tech

Now, there is a debate on whether history will soon repeat.

The New York Times

The Daily Mail launched a debate on whether women would ever trust men to take it.

The Guardian

He is at the centre of a debate on whether more money should be diverted to cybersecurity or conventional forces.

The Guardian

"We are hoping to start a debate on whether this work would be funded," Ms. Alikani said.

The New York Times - Science

Wednesday's programme in Davos kicked off with a debate on whether 20th-century capitalism is failing 21st-century society.

The Guardian - Business

But that should not substitute for a debate on whether such firms should be allowed to exist at all.

The New York Times

The former prime minister said: "You can have a debate on whether it's the right or wrong decision.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When introducing a controversial topic, use "a debate on whether" to frame it as a point of contention requiring exploration.

Common error

While grammatically sound, avoid using "a debate on whether" in casual conversation; simpler phrases like "discussing if" or "talking about whether" may be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a debate on whether" functions as a noun phrase that introduces a point of contention or a question under discussion. It sets the stage for exploring different viewpoints and arguments related to a specific topic. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a debate on whether" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to introduce a topic of discussion or contention. Ludwig AI validates its correctness, and the analyzed examples reveal its prevalence in News & Media, science, and formal business contexts. For more casual communication, consider using simpler alternatives like "a discussion about whether". While authoritative sources frequently employ this phrase, it's essential to consider the formality of the setting. It's useful to introduce controversial topic and frame the issue as a point of contention requiring exploration.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a discussion on whether

Replaces "debate" with "discussion", indicating a less formal exchange of views.

a question of whether

Uses "question" instead of "debate", framing the issue as a matter to be resolved.

a consideration of whether

Uses "consideration" instead of "debate", suggesting a more thoughtful and reflective examination.

a deliberation on whether

Replaces "debate" with "deliberation", implying a careful and prolonged discussion.

an argument about whether

Substitutes "debate" with "argument", emphasizing a potential conflict or disagreement.

a controversy over whether

Replaces "debate" with "controversy", implying a more widespread and publicly significant disagreement.

a discourse about whether

Replaces "debate" with "discourse", implying a formal and extended discussion.

a dispute regarding whether

Uses "dispute" instead of "debate", highlighting a formal disagreement or conflict.

an inquiry into whether

Replaces "debate" with "inquiry", suggesting an investigation or formal questioning.

a symposium regarding whether

Substitutes "debate" with "symposium", denoting a formal academic conference or meeting.

FAQs

How can I use "a debate on whether" in a sentence?

You can use "a debate on whether" to introduce a topic that is being discussed or argued. For example, "There is "a debate on whether" the new policy is beneficial".

What is a more formal alternative to "a debate on whether"?

A more formal alternative could be "a consideration of whether" or "a deliberation on whether", depending on the context.

What can I say instead of "a debate on whether" in an informal context?

In a more informal setting, consider using "a discussion about whether" or simply "talking about whether".

Is "a debate on whether" always followed by a question?

Yes, "a debate on whether" introduces an indirect question expressing the subject of the debate, such as ""a debate on whether" the Earth is flat".