a disputed point

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a disputed point" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a topic or issue that is subject to disagreement or differing opinions. Example: "The validity of the research findings remains a disputed point among experts in the field."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Sport

Politics

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

McLean also won No. 2 doubles (Donelson and senior Jing Waid) in what was an occasionally heated match that included a disputed point, and No. 3 doubles (senior Jason Wang and junior Andrew Lacaden) to complete the doubles sweep.

The Washington Post

It is debated whether the argument was over a disputed point, an unpaid debt or a love rival.

Independent

Naples is also the spiritual home of the pizza and (though this is a disputed point) that other great Italian culinary tradition, ice-cream.

The Guardian - Travel

But after a disputed point went against him in his semifinal loss to Fernando Gonzalez, Blake left without a medal, losing in straight sets to Novak Djokovic for the bronze.

The New York Times - Sports

Any charges that a grand jury might bring against the officer who fatally shot a black 16-year-old here last week are likely to hinge on a disputed point.

The New York Times

Most voters have a view on whether they see possession of nuclear weapons and the capacity to fire them in last resort (itself a disputed point) as a vital national interest.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

Several United Nations officials disputed points that Mr. Galbraith raised.

The New York Times

The dispute was compounded by many minor disputed points.

Wikipedia

Mr. Starr's letter, which reads much like a legal brief might, is a detailed effort to dispute point by point many though not all of Mr. Brill's charges of improper conduct.

The New York Times

It is, though Mr Farage strongly denies it, the epitome of a populist party: analysis by the Times newspaper, which UKIP also disputes, points to a hole of some £120 billion ($185 billion) in its fiscal plans.

The Economist

However, he pointed to a disputed penalty decision in the Euro 2012 campaign, an offside decision that benefited Macedonia in the recent draw at Hampden and a wrongly disallowed goal against Wales as examples of decisions that had hurt Scotland.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a disputed point", ensure that the context clearly indicates the nature of the disagreement and who is involved.

Common error

Avoid using "a disputed point" when the disagreement is minor or insignificant. Using it for trivial matters can make your writing sound overly dramatic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a disputed point" functions as a noun phrase. It serves to identify a specific subject or issue that is currently under debate or disagreement. Ludwig's examples show this phrase used in various contexts, highlighting its role in pinpointing contentious matters.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Academia

18%

Science

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a disputed point" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed noun phrase utilized to denote an issue characterized by disagreement or contention. Analysis of Ludwig's examples reveals its presence in diverse contexts such as news, academia, and general discourse, underlining its versatility. While generally neutral to formal in tone, context dictates appropriateness. When using this phrase, remember that clarity is key – ensure the nature and those involved in the dispute are easily understood. Alternatives like ""a contentious issue"" or ""a debatable matter"" offer subtle variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a point of contention

Highlights the disagreement and potential conflict surrounding the issue.

a contested topic

Highlights the active opposition and arguments surrounding the issue.

a contentious issue

Focuses on the controversial nature of the topic.

an area of disagreement

Highlights the specific area where opinions diverge.

a debatable matter

Highlights the possibility of different opinions and arguments.

a controversial subject

Emphasizes that the topic is likely to provoke strong opinions and debate.

an unsettled question

Focuses on the lack of a definitive answer or resolution.

an open question

Emphasizes that the issue is unresolved and still under consideration.

a questionable assertion

Focuses on the doubt and uncertainty surrounding a statement or claim.

a moot point

Suggests the issue is no longer relevant or practical.

FAQs

How can I use "a disputed point" in a sentence?

You can use "a disputed point" to indicate an issue where there is disagreement. For instance: "Whether the policy will be effective remains "a disputed point" among economists."

What are some alternatives to "a disputed point"?

Alternatives include "a contentious issue", "a debatable matter", or "an open question" depending on the specific context.

Is it always necessary to clarify who disputes "a disputed point"?

While not always mandatory, specifying who holds the opposing views adds clarity and strengthens your argument. For example, "The effectiveness of the treatment is "a disputed point" among some doctors."

What's the difference between "a disputed point" and "a moot point"?

"A disputed point" indicates ongoing disagreement, while "a moot point" suggests the issue is no longer relevant or practical.