a subject of debate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a subject of debate" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase whenever a topic is being discussed or argued about among a group of people. For example, "The efficacy of the new vaccine was a subject of debate among the medical community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Borders are a subject of debate.

The New York Times

The etiology of this disease remains a subject of debate.

European Psychiatry

Yet its origin remains a subject of debate.

Quaternary Science Reviews

WHAT YOU'LL FIND Borders are a subject of debate.

The New York Times

Protistan systematics remains a subject of debate and change.

Encyclopedia Britannica

So specific cases often become a subject of debate.

The New York Times - Science

The future of Pemex is a subject of debate.

The New York Times

Exactly why is a subject of debate in Washington.

The New York Times

What happens next is a subject of debate.

The New York Times - Health

Peggy's weight loss remains a subject of debate too.

The Guardian

Even its speed is a subject of debate.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing formally, pair "a subject of debate" with a clear statement of the differing viewpoints or the reasons for the ongoing discussion.

Common error

While useful, "a subject of debate" can become repetitive. Vary your language by using synonyms such as "a matter of contention" or "an open question" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a subject of debate" functions as a noun phrase. It typically acts as a subject complement, identifying a topic or issue that is under discussion and characterized by differing viewpoints. Ludwig's examples show it introducing areas of ongoing discussion.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

38%

News & Media

35%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a subject of debate" is a versatile phrase used to introduce topics characterized by disagreement or uncertainty. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and high frequency across various reliable sources, notably in news, science, and encyclopedic content. It serves as a noun phrase identifying contentious issues and promoting further discussion. When using this phrase, vary your language and specify the differing viewpoints involved.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a point of disagreement

Focuses specifically on the differing opinions involved.

a contested topic

Stresses that the topic is being actively challenged or disputed.

a matter of contention

Emphasizes the element of dispute and disagreement.

a controversial issue

Indicates that the topic is likely to provoke strong opposition.

an open question

Highlights the lack of a definitive answer or resolution.

an unsettled matter

Indicates the issue remains unresolved and potentially contentious.

up for discussion

Indicates that the topic is currently being actively considered.

under consideration

Highlights that the topic is being evaluated but not necessarily debated.

a moot point

Suggests the issue is no longer practically relevant or worth discussing.

subject to interpretation

Implies that the meaning or understanding can vary.

FAQs

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

You can use "a subject of debate" to introduce a topic about which people have different opinions or for which there isn't a clear answer. For example: "The effectiveness of the new policy is "a subject of debate" among economists."

What are some alternatives to saying "a subject of debate"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "a matter of contention", "an open question", or "a point of disagreement".

Is it correct to say "a subject of debates"?

No, the correct form is "a subject of debate" (singular). "Debates" implies multiple distinct debates, while "debate" refers to the general process of discussion and argument.

What's the difference between "a subject of debate" and "a matter of opinion"?

"A subject of debate" implies there are arguments and evidence on multiple sides. "A matter of opinion" suggests that the issue is based on personal feelings or beliefs, rather than factual evidence.