a point of debate

USAGE SUMMARY

'a point of debate' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you wish to refer to something contentious that is being discussed or argued about. For example: “The ethics of genetic engineering is a point of debate in many circles.”.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

The true meaning of these results, however, remained a point of debate yesterday.

The New York Times

This is likely to be a point of debate in the forthcoming general election.

The Guardian

It's a point of debate amongst bookish types, but we reckon author Alex Keegan says it best: "Who cares?

Independent

It appears to be keeping the abduction in the public eye, but its effectiveness has become a point of debate.

Independent

But whether these enticements will draw many consumers to spend at a more robust pace remains a point of debate.

The New York Times

But whether there was sufficient resolve to push back the startling gains by the militants was a point of debate.

The New York Times

Urban life is more stressful than rural life, but whether it's lonelier is a point of debate among social scientists.

The Guardian

The time when Britain was last spanned by woods is a point of debate in academic circles.

The Guardian - Travel

Whether an economy controlled by cronies is better than the state-run system is a point of debate among analysts of the country.

The New York Times

The memo became a point of debate in the uproar over the firing, in part because it was so startlingly lacking in substance.

The New Yorker

As time passes and perhaps new information surfaces, Deflategate, as it relates to actual footballs, will continue to be a point of debate — a taunt from Pats haters, and another chip on the shoulder for New England's faithful.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a point of debate" when you want to objectively indicate that there are differing opinions or unresolved questions surrounding a topic. This avoids taking a stance and simply acknowledges the existence of the debate.

Common error

Avoid using "a point of debate" to express your personal disagreement. This phrase is best used to neutrally indicate that a debate exists, not to inject your own opinion into the discussion. Clearly differentiate between objectively stating a debate and subjectively participating in it.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a point of debate" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It identifies something (a point) as being subject to debate or discussion, acting as a subject complement or an object in a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms its frequent usage in varied contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Science

42%

Encyclopedias

2%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a point of debate" is a versatile phrase used to neutrally indicate that a topic is subject to disagreement or discussion. Ludwig AI data reveals it's grammatically sound and frequently appears in diverse contexts, including news, science, and encyclopedias. While alternatives like "a matter of contention" exist, it's crucial to avoid misusing the phrase to inject personal opinions. The phrase is appropriate for formal and informal communication and its high frequency across various sources highlights its broad applicability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a matter of contention

Focuses on the disagreement and conflict surrounding the issue.

a subject of controversy

Highlights the controversial nature of the issue, suggesting strong opposing views.

a disputed issue

Emphasizes that the issue is being actively questioned and challenged.

an open question

Suggests that the issue remains unresolved and requires further consideration.

a bone of contention

Implies that the issue is a persistent and significant source of disagreement.

a moot point

Suggests that the issue is no longer relevant or practical to debate.

a controversial topic

Directly states that the topic generates considerable disagreement and opposing viewpoints.

an arguable point

Highlights that the point is open to argument and differing interpretations.

a question under discussion

Indicates that the issue is currently being actively discussed and considered.

a topic for discussion

Simply states that the topic is appropriate for discussion.

FAQs

How can I use "a point of debate" in a sentence?

You can use "a point of debate" to indicate that a particular topic or issue is subject to disagreement or discussion. For example, "The effectiveness of the new policy is "a point of debate" among economists".

What's the difference between "a point of debate" and "a point of contention"?

"A point of debate" suggests a more general discussion or disagreement, while "a point of contention" implies a stronger, more adversarial disagreement. "A point of contention" often indicates a source of ongoing conflict.

What are some alternatives to using "a point of debate"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "a matter of contention", "a subject of controversy", or "a disputed issue".

Is it appropriate to use "a point of debate" in formal writing?

Yes, "a point of debate" is suitable for formal writing as it is a neutral and objective way to indicate the existence of differing opinions or unresolved questions. It is commonly used in academic, professional, and journalistic contexts.