a sharp debate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a sharp debate" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a discussion or argument that is intense, vigorous, or characterized by strong opinions. Example: "The committee held a sharp debate over the proposed changes to the policy, with members passionately expressing their views."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

While scientists generally agree that the risk of additional harm at the surface and near the shore has diminished since the well was capped a month ago, a sharp debate has arisen about the continuing risk from oil in the deep waters.

The New York Times - Science

The practice has touched off a sharp debate.

The New York Times

A sharp debate among historians and biographers has followed.

The New York Times

But the "yuck factor" has led to a sharp debate about its merits.

The New York Times

But they are already stirring a sharp debate on the Internet.

The New York Times - Health

A sharp debate over the holiday persisted over the next few years, leading up to a statewide vote in 1990.

The Washington Post

Since the end of the cold war, there has been a sharp debate over the future of the National Guard.

The New York Times

Among I.B.M. directors, there had been a sharp debate over whether to hire a technologist or a professional manager.

The New York Times

This was accompanied by a sharp debate back home over what the United States should do with its possession in Southeast Asia.

The New York Times

The new evaluation has touched off a sharp debate about Iran's nuclear capacity, and the C.I.A.'s ability to monitor it.

The New York Times

With the latest deadline approaching on Monday, the issue set off a sharp debate between the president and his own team, starting last week, aides said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a sharp debate", consider the specific nuance you want to convey. Is the debate heated, intense, or simply characterized by strong opinions? Choose alternatives accordingly to refine your meaning.

Common error

Avoid redundancy by not pairing "sharp" with other adjectives that already convey intensity. For instance, "a sharply intense debate" is less effective than simply "an intense debate" or "a sharp debate".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a sharp debate" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a particular type of discussion characterized by strong disagreement. Ludwig AI states that it is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

95%

Encyclopedias

2%

Science & Research

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a sharp debate" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe a discussion marked by significant disagreement. As highlighted by Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. It frequently appears in news and media contexts, signifying its relevance in reporting contentious issues. While alternatives like "a heated debate" or "an intense discussion" exist, the best choice depends on the specific shade of meaning you want to convey. When incorporating "a sharp debate" into your writing, ensure the context supports the presence of clearly defined opposing views and the intensity implied by the term.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a heated debate

Emphasizes the emotional intensity and potential anger involved in the debate.

an intense discussion

Highlights the depth and focus of the discussion, potentially lacking the adversarial aspect.

a vigorous argument

Suggests a forceful and energetic exchange of opposing views.

a lively controversy

Focuses on the public nature and widespread interest in the debate.

a spirited discussion

Indicates enthusiasm and engagement in the discussion, possibly with a touch of good humor.

a contentious issue

Highlights the topic of the debate as being likely to cause disagreement and dispute.

a fierce dispute

Implies a strong and potentially hostile disagreement.

a critical discussion

Underlines the importance and seriousness of the discussion.

a profound disagreement

Emphasizes the significance and depth of the differing opinions.

a fundamental difference of opinion

Highlights the irreconcilable nature of the differing viewpoints.

FAQs

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

You can use "a sharp debate" to describe a situation where there is a strong disagreement. For example, "The new policy sparked "a sharp debate" among the board members".

What are some alternatives to "a sharp debate"?

Alternatives include "a heated debate", "an intense discussion", or "a vigorous argument", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "a sharp debate" or "an intense debate"?

Both "a sharp debate" and "an intense debate" are correct. The choice depends on the nuance you want to convey. "Sharp" suggests a clear and defined disagreement, while "intense" emphasizes the strength of feeling involved.

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

"A sharp debate" implies a significant disagreement and strong opinions, while "a simple discussion" suggests a more neutral and less contentious exchange of ideas.