a sound debate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a sound debate" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a debate that is logical, well-reasoned, and based on solid arguments. Example: "The panel engaged in a sound debate about the implications of climate change policies."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

"By constructing and instituting a sound debate process, it will allow candidates to bring their ideas and vision to Americans in a timely and efficient way.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

The critics make a sound debating point: during the credit bubble, the ratings agencies acted as whores to Wall Street.

The New Yorker

"I've yet to hear a sound argument for fewer debates," said Feist, who's produced five this past year.

Huffington Post

There is nothing wrong with a good debate or sound argument, however when name calling and personal information is displayed (keep in the mind the Internet is public and permanent), and they are bringing minors into the fray, it is wrong on all levels.

Huffington Post

Back in the early 1990s, during the "giant sucking sound" debate over NAFTA, it was still important to ensure that Americans didn't react to rising trade deficits and dislocation of jobs in non-competitive sectors by demonising developing countries.

The Economist

"O.K., do you have a sound expert?" Debates over wind turbines are nothing new.

The New York Times

Whether – and to what extent – SSD users also perceive the auditory stimulus as a sound is debated [ 97, 98].

Current Opinion in Neurology

At that time, he played a sound bite and debated its meaning with guests on the left and the right.

The New York Times

Indeed, a book, by its mere existence, can lend legitimacy to an argument in a sound-bite-driven debate.

The New York Times - Books

It then cuts to a sound bite from a debate last week — one that Mr. Romney and his campaign have seized on repeatedly in recent days — in which Mr. Santorum explained himself.

The New York Times

Murdoch's point – in a speech made to an audience that included his father, Rupert, and the culture secretary, Jeremy Hunt – was that the 1710 act represented a sound starting point for debates about copyright today.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a sound debate" to describe discussions where arguments are well-reasoned and logical, ensuring clarity and credibility.

Common error

While "a sound debate" is grammatically correct, its formality might be unsuitable for casual conversations; consider more relaxed alternatives like "good discussion" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a sound debate" functions as a noun phrase, where "sound" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "debate". It describes the quality of the debate. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage, indicating it's grammatically acceptable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Science

36%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a sound debate" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe a well-reasoned and logical discussion. While deemed accurate by Ludwig AI, it's more suitable for neutral and formal contexts such as news reporting or academic discussions, appearing commonly in sources like The New York Times and Huffington Post. Alternatives include "a robust discussion" or "a well-reasoned debate", depending on the desired emphasis. Be mindful of the register and choose accordingly.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a well-reasoned debate

Focuses on the quality of reasoning within the debate, emphasizing the logical structure of arguments.

a robust debate

Highlights the intensity and thoroughness of the debate, suggesting a comprehensive examination of the issues.

a logical discussion

Shifts focus to the logical flow and coherence of the conversation, rather than the adversarial nature of a debate.

a substantive discussion

Emphasizes the depth and importance of the topics discussed, implying a debate with meaningful content.

a rational exchange

Highlights the rationality and reason-based nature of the discussion, focusing on the exchange of ideas.

a cogent argument

Focuses on the persuasiveness and clarity of the arguments presented, rather than the debate itself.

a constructive dialogue

Emphasizes the positive and collaborative nature of the discussion, aiming for mutual understanding and progress.

a fruitful discussion

Implies that the debate leads to positive outcomes or insights, highlighting its productivity.

a valid debate

Focuses on the legitimacy and relevance of the debate, suggesting it addresses genuine and important issues.

a judicious discussion

Suggests careful consideration and balanced judgment in the debate, highlighting its thoughtfulness.

FAQs

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

You can use "a sound debate" to describe a discussion where arguments are logical and well-supported, such as: "The panel engaged in "a sound debate" about the implications of the new policy".

What's a good substitute for "a sound debate"?

Alternatives include "a robust discussion", which emphasizes thoroughness, or "a well-reasoned debate", highlighting the quality of arguments.

Is it always appropriate to use "a sound debate" in writing?

While grammatically correct, "a sound debate" is more formal and may not fit casual contexts. Consider using simpler phrases like "a good discussion" in informal settings.

What makes a debate qualify as "a sound debate"?

A debate qualifies as "a sound debate" when the arguments presented are logical, well-supported by evidence, and contribute to a clear and rational discussion of the topic at hand.