a robust debate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a robust debate" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a lively and vigorous discussion on a particular topic, often involving differing opinions. Example: "The conference featured a robust debate on climate change policies, with experts presenting various viewpoints."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

A: Clearly the public option is a robust debate.

The New York Times - Health

But a robust debate on political ethics is starting.

The New York Times

The officials said there was a "robust debate" in the two-hour meeting.

The Guardian

This year's presidential campaign has featured a robust debate about the cost of higher education.

The New York Times

"But in general, from what I've been able to observe, it's been a robust debate".

The New Yorker

The mayor went to Ms. Gillibrand's Washington office, prepared for a robust debate on gun issues.

The New York Times

They deserve a lot better, including a robust debate on these issues in the presidential campaign.

The New York Times

Another was a robust debate across the country that ultimately transcended partisanship and prejudice.

The New York Times

And I welcome a robust debate in the weeks and months to come.

Independent

But we want the right to hear their points tested in a robust debate before dismissing them.

The Guardian - Opinion

Biden said the Democratic primary had seen a robust debate between Hillary Clinton and Bernie Sanders devoid of personal attacks.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a robust debate" when you want to emphasize that a discussion is thorough, energetic, and involves multiple perspectives. This phrase is suitable for describing discussions in political, academic, or professional settings.

Common error

While "a robust debate" is appropriate for formal and serious discussions, avoid using it in casual or informal conversations where simpler terms like "discussion" or "chat" would be more suitable. Overusing it can make your language sound unnecessarily stiff or pretentious.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a robust debate" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb (e.g., "sparked a robust debate") or as a subject complement. Ludwig AI indicates its correctness and usability, confirming its established role in English grammar.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Formal & Business

8%

Science

2%

Less common in

Academia

1%

Reference

0.5%

Encyclopedias

0.5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a robust debate" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe a thorough and energetic discussion, often involving differing viewpoints. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and offers alternatives such as "vigorous discussion" or "lively argument". Predominantly found in News & Media, the phrase conveys a sense of importance and engagement suitable for formal and professional contexts. While appropriate for serious discussions, avoid overuse in casual settings. The provided examples and analysis offer insights into its effective use and potential alternatives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a vigorous discussion

Focuses more on the energy and intensity of the exchange.

an intense discussion

Emphasizes the depth and focus of the discussion.

a spirited exchange

Highlights the enthusiasm and liveliness of the debate.

a thorough deliberation

Stresses the careful and comprehensive nature of the discussion.

a comprehensive discussion

Highlights the wide-ranging scope and completeness of the discussion.

an open dialogue

Focuses on the accessibility and inclusiveness of the discussion.

a frank exchange of views

Emphasizes the honesty and directness of the discussion.

a lively controversy

Highlights the contentious and engaging nature of the discussion.

an extensive consideration

Emphasizes the detailed and lengthy nature of the consideration.

a substantive discussion

Highlights the importance and depth of the topic being discussed.

FAQs

How can I use "a robust debate" in a sentence?

You can use "a robust debate" to describe a thorough and energetic discussion, as in "The proposal sparked "a robust debate" among the committee members".

What's a less formal alternative to "a robust debate"?

For less formal contexts, consider using phrases like "a lively discussion", "a spirited exchange", or simply "a good discussion".

Is "robust debate" always about disagreements?

While often used in the context of disagreements, "robust debate" can also describe a thorough examination of a topic where different perspectives are explored, even if there's general agreement.

What distinguishes "a robust debate" from a regular "discussion"?

The term ""a robust debate"" suggests a more vigorous, comprehensive, and in-depth examination of a topic compared to a simple "discussion", implying a greater level of engagement and scrutiny.