a debate with

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a debate with" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used when someone is discussing something with another person, usually to find common ground or to compare viewpoints. For example, "The two candidates engaged in a debate with each other on the issues of the economy and healthcare."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

"I can win a debate with most people, but I can never win a debate with John".

The New Yorker

Sean Jackson wants a debate with his bespectacled girlfriend settled.

The Guardian - Sport

But it is also a debate with racial undercurrents.

The New York Times

It then sparked a debate with the Muslim clergy.

The Guardian

But in a debate with Mr. Obama, he said, "I can say: 'I was wrong.

The New York Times

Mr. Miliband said he would relish a debate with Mr. Cameron about leadership and character.

The New York Times

But in a debate with Mr. Obama, he said that "I can say I was wrong.

The New York Times

She cheerfully imagined what she might say in a debate with Bill O'Reilly.

The New Yorker

But the network also staged a debate with Mr. Arnold's group.

The New York Times - Arts

I got into a debate with E. O. Wilson about the Everglades [during this session].

The New York Times

During a debate with Romney, Kennedy remarked, "I am pro-choice.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a debate with" when referring to a structured discussion or contest of ideas between two or more parties. Ensure the context clearly indicates the topic and participants involved. For example, "The candidate prepared extensively for a debate with her opponent on economic policy."

Common error

Avoid using "a debate with" when the situation is simply an unstructured disagreement or quarrel. A debate implies a more formal setting and a reasoned exchange, while an argument can be less structured and more emotionally charged. Instead, use "an argument with" in such cases.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a debate with" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically used to indicate an interaction involving a formal discussion or argument between two or more parties. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and widespread usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a debate with" is a grammatically correct and very common prepositional phrase used to describe a structured discussion or argument between parties with differing viewpoints. Ludwig AI's analysis confirms its validity and widespread use across various contexts, especially in news and media. While it can be used in both formal and informal settings, it is important to differentiate it from a simple argument, as a debate implies a more organized and reasoned exchange. Alternative phrases like "a discussion with" or "a conversation with" can be used to convey a less confrontational tone, depending on the specific context and desired nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a discussion with

Replaces "debate" with a more general term for conversation.

an argument with

Substitutes "debate" with a term implying disagreement or conflict.

a conversation with

Replaces "debate" with a neutral term for exchanging ideas.

a dialogue with

Substitutes "debate" with a term implying a more formal or structured discussion.

an exchange with

Replaces "debate" with a term implying a reciprocal sharing of ideas.

a confrontation with

Substitutes "debate" with a term that suggests a more adversarial interaction.

a dispute with

Replaces "debate" with a term that implies a strong disagreement.

a disagreement with

Substitutes "debate" with a term that suggests a lack of consensus.

a polemic with

Replaces "debate" with a term that implies a controversial discussion.

a discourse with

Substitutes "debate" with a term implying a formal and extended discussion.

FAQs

What's the difference between "a debate with" and "a discussion with"?

"A debate with" implies a structured argument with opposing viewpoints, whereas "a discussion with" suggests a more general and collaborative exchange of ideas.

When is it appropriate to use "a debate with"?

Use "a debate with" when referring to a formal contest of ideas, such as in political campaigns, academic settings, or public forums. It's best used when opposing viewpoints are presented in a structured manner.

What can I say instead of "a debate with" to sound less confrontational?

You can use alternatives like "a conversation with", "a dialogue with", or "an exchange with" depending on the context to convey a less adversarial tone.

Is "a debate with" formal or informal language?

"A debate with" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, but the formality of the debate itself depends on the setting. It can be used in news reports, academic discussions, and even casual conversations.