a debated topic

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a debated topic" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a subject or issue that is currently being discussed or argued by people. Example: "Climate change is a debated topic among scientists and policymakers, with various opinions on its causes and solutions."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

The origin of modern humans is a debated topic.

Science Magazine

Laminar burning velocity of lean hydrogen + air flames at standard conditions is still a debated topic in combustion.

Combustion and Flame

The effect of violence on people's residential choice remains a debated topic in the literature on crime and conflict.

IZA Journal of Development and Migration

The exact mechanism which silver nanoparticles employ to cause antimicrobial effect is not clearly known and is a debated topic.

International Nano Letters

As will be clarified shortly, what exactly constitutes a system under measurement is a debated topic among measurement theorists.

SEP

The area under cultivation of energy crops is not part of the monitoring system or any other indicator set, although increasing land use competition due to the energy transition has been a debated topic in science and politics for years.

Energy, Sustainability and Society

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

The solution to that problem also defines the number of companies an optimal portfolio – a commonly debated topic.

TechCrunch

The choice of a significance threshold is a hotly debated topic in the setting of agnostic omic scans.

BioData Mining

And Puerto Rico's status is a hotly debated topic: should the island become a US state, remain a commonwealth or become an independent nation?

BBC

Underground utilities, a hotly debated topic in Newport Heights for more than a year, could soon become a reality.

Los Angeles Times

The homing of stem cells after a systemic injection represents in fact a much debated topic.

BioMed Research International

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "a debated topic", ensure that the context clarifies the different perspectives or sides involved in the debate to provide a comprehensive understanding for your audience.

Common error

Avoid using "a debated topic" as a filler phrase. Instead, provide specific details about the nature of the debate or the key points of contention to make your writing more impactful and informative.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a debated topic" functions as a noun phrase acting as a subject complement or object. It identifies a subject or issue that is currently under discussion and disagreement, as showcased in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

48%

News & Media

39%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a debated topic" is a commonly used phrase to introduce subjects with differing opinions. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and applicability across diverse contexts, primarily in science and news media. While suitable for formal and informal settings, it's crucial to provide specific context to enhance its impact. Alternative phrases like "a controversial subject" or "a disputed issue" can add nuance. Remember to avoid overuse and vague language to ensure your writing remains informative and impactful. Therefore, while it is grammatically correct it’s important to use it with the appropriate context and level of detail.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a disputed issue

Focuses on the element of disagreement and contention.

a controversial subject

Highlights the potential for strong opposing viewpoints and emotional responses.

a contentious matter

Emphasizes the likelihood of argument and conflict.

a point of contention

Pinpoints a specific issue where disagreement exists.

a matter of debate

Simply indicates a subject open for discussion and differing opinions.

an open question

Suggests that there is no clear or universally accepted answer.

a subject under discussion

More neutral, emphasizing the ongoing conversation rather than the disagreement.

a matter for consideration

Indicates that the issue is still being thought about and evaluated.

a topic of discussion

A general way to describe a subject that people are talking about.

a grey area

Implies a lack of clarity and defined boundaries.

FAQs

How can I use "a debated topic" in a sentence?

You can use "a debated topic" to introduce a subject with varying opinions. For example, "The effectiveness of the new policy is "a debated topic" among employees."

What are some alternatives to "a debated topic"?

Some alternatives include "a controversial subject", "a disputed issue", or "a contentious matter", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a debated topic" in formal writing?

Yes, "a debated topic" is suitable for formal writing, as evidenced by its presence in academic and news sources. However, ensure the surrounding context is also formal.

What makes an issue "a debated topic"?

An issue becomes "a debated topic" when there are differing opinions, conflicting evidence, or ongoing discussions and arguments surrounding it.