a useful debate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a useful debate" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a discussion or argument that provides valuable insights or perspectives on a particular topic. Example: "The conference featured a useful debate on climate change policies that engaged experts from various fields."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

That's a useful debate to have, and it's encouraged by this president".

The New York Times

These books transcend the boundaries traditionally associated with children's literature and have sparked a useful debate about what makes a book for children.

The Guardian - Books

Other economists, however, said France's stand could contribute to a useful debate about the wisdom of a "one size fits all" fiscal and monetary policy.

The New York Times

This could open up a useful debate on the hunting issue, which in presidential politics usually involves candidates bragging about their body count.

The New York Times

I think that debate was a useful debate, it's about the possibility of making an ancient patrimony coexist with today's art," he said in a recent interview in the famous château brought into being by the oh-so-famous king to preserve his glory for posterity and in the meantime to allow him to keep a close watch on the shifty-eyed nobility.

The New York Times - Arts

All of these positions are summarily discussed in a useful debate format in Cohen and Sterba (2003).

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

A more useful debate about character would involve pondering this.

The Economist

But while politicians continue to make election-year speeches about protecting jobs, industry analysts say a more useful debate might be over whether there was too much consolidation of American defense manufacturers in the 1990s when military spending slowed, leaving the government with limited domestic options.

The New York Times

In response to arguments that broach the question of haecceitism in a limited domain, useful debate requires us to distinguish the scope of different versions of haecceitism and the distinctive motivations of domain-specific (anti- haecceitisms.

SEP

There are other, relatively minor, categories to consider, but a calm analysis of the sources of immigration would lead to a more measured and useful debate.

The Guardian - Opinion

But the movie, which resurrects a shopworn but still useful debate about joining the system to change it from within versus working from outside to bring it down is certainly thoughtful by Hollywood standards.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a useful debate", ensure the context clearly indicates what makes the debate valuable—whether it's the insights gained, the solutions proposed, or the perspectives shared. Provide specific details to highlight the benefits derived from the discussion.

Common error

Avoid claiming a debate is "useful" without specifying why. General statements lack impact. Instead, articulate the specific benefits, such as improved understanding, innovative solutions, or clarified perspectives, to substantiate your claim.

Linguistic Context

A useful debate functions as a noun phrase that describes a specific type of discussion. It implies that the debate is not just any ordinary discussion, but one that provides some form of value, insight, or progress. As Ludwig AI points out, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a useful debate" is a grammatically sound phrase that describes a discussion with positive outcomes. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in English writing. While not extremely common, the phrase appears across various contexts, primarily in news media and scientific publications. When employing this phrase, ensure to articulate why the debate is considered useful, highlighting the specific benefits derived from it. Consider alternatives such as "productive discussion" or "valuable exchange" to add nuance. By avoiding generalizations and providing concrete details, you can effectively convey the significance of a useful debate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a productive discussion

Focuses on the outcome of the discussion being beneficial.

a valuable exchange

Highlights the worth of the interaction and ideas shared.

a fruitful dialogue

Emphasizes the positive results and insights gained from the conversation.

an enlightening discourse

Suggests the discussion provides clarity and understanding.

a constructive argument

Implies the debate leads to positive improvements or solutions.

a helpful deliberation

Highlights the supportive nature of the discussion in reaching a decision.

a worthwhile conversation

Underscores that the time spent in discussion was well-invested.

a meaningful exchange of ideas

Emphasizes the depth and significance of the shared perspectives.

an insightful discussion

Highlights that the exchange lead to new perspectives and a better understanding.

a positive contention

Suggests a beneficial outcome from disagreement

FAQs

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

You can use "a useful debate" to describe a discussion that provides valuable insights or progress. For example: "The panel discussion turned out to be "a useful debate" on the future of renewable energy".

What are some alternatives to "a useful debate"?

Alternatives include "a productive discussion", "a valuable exchange", or "a fruitful dialogue", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What makes a debate "useful"?

A debate is "useful" when it leads to a better understanding of a topic, generates innovative solutions, clarifies different perspectives, or results in actionable insights.

How does "a useful debate" differ from just "a debate"?

"A useful debate" specifically emphasizes the positive outcomes and benefits derived from the discussion. It implies that the debate was not only engaging but also productive and valuable. A standard debate may not necessarily have such positive results.