a worthwhile debate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a worthwhile debate" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a discussion or argument that is valuable or meaningful, often in the context of differing opinions or perspectives. Example: "The panel discussion on climate change was a worthwhile debate that highlighted various viewpoints and solutions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

This is a worthwhile debate to have.

The New Yorker

To opponents of same-sex marriage, the firm's decision is the latest evidence that elite opinion generally and the legal culture in particular is racing ahead of popular opinion and shutting down a worthwhile debate.

The New York Times

The Times had a worthwhile debate earlier this year, asking: "Will Americans Really Learn Chinese?" Sign up for the daily newsletter.Sign up for the daily newsletter: the best of The New Yorker every day.

The New Yorker

And the opening question for Unai Emery started: "was the referee decisive?" Emery's response was interesting and could prompt a worthwhile debate, if anyone can be bothered to have it: he talked less about concrete decisions, more about concepts.

The Guardian - Sport

The Times had a worthwhile debate earlier this year, asking: "Will Americans Really Learn Chinese?" Evan Osnos joined The New Yorker as a staff writer in 2008, and covers politics and foreign affairs.

The New Yorker

E-mail address GO SIGN UP Share Tweet The Times had a worthwhile debate earlier this year, asking: "Will Americans Really Learn Chinese?" Sign up for the daily newsletter.Sign up for the daily newsletter: the best of The New Yorker every day.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

(The series has already drawn criticism for apparently irresponsibly mystifying Native American people and their sacred customs -- a very worthwhile debate).

Huffington Post

So for students to wish to open up a debate about racism and white supremacy as embodied by the statue would seem a reasonable and worthwhile debate to have.

Independent

For it to be a meaningful and worthwhile debate, each side has to have their opportunity to state their case, if you will.

Vice

But these contradictions, combined with a fierce sense of patriotism and often a sentimental attachment to "the old country", do provide more political space for a worthwhile immigration debate than is possible in Europe, which imagines itself ethnically pure.

The Guardian - Opinion

This is a worthwhile ethical debate because this scenario is more common than officials are willing to admit.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "a worthwhile debate", ensure that the context clearly indicates the topic or subject being debated. Providing specific examples or details can further enhance the clarity and relevance of the statement.

Common error

Avoid repeating the phrase "a worthwhile debate" too frequently within a single piece of writing. Doing so can make your writing sound repetitive and less engaging. Use synonyms or rephrase your sentences to maintain reader interest.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a worthwhile debate" functions as a noun phrase, where "worthwhile" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "debate". It indicates that the debate is considered valuable, important, or useful. As stated by Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a worthwhile debate" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that effectively conveys the value or importance of a discussion. As Ludwig AI states, the phrase is suitable for various contexts, particularly in news and media. While alternatives like "a valuable discussion" or "a meaningful exchange" exist, "a worthwhile debate" remains a clear and effective way to express the merits of engaging in a particular discussion. Although its usage is currently uncommon, its clarity and directness make it a strong choice for conveying the significance of an exchange of ideas.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a valuable discussion

Replaces "debate" with "discussion", implying a less confrontational exchange of ideas.

a meaningful exchange

Highlights the significance of the interaction rather than simply the act of debating.

a fruitful discussion

Suggests the debate will yield positive results or insights.

a productive conversation

Emphasizes the constructive nature of the exchange.

an important deliberation

Implies a more formal and considered discussion.

a significant discourse

Suggests a more academic or intellectual exchange.

a useful deliberation

Focuses on the practicality and helpfulness of the debate.

a constructive argument

Highlights the positive and building nature of the argument.

an enlightening discussion

Emphasizes the educational and informative aspect of the interaction.

a beneficial exchange of views

Focuses on the mutual advantages gained from sharing different perspectives.

FAQs

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

You can use "a worthwhile debate" to describe a discussion or argument that is valuable or meaningful. For example, "The panel discussion on climate change was "a worthwhile debate" that highlighted various viewpoints and potential solutions".

What are some alternatives to "a worthwhile debate"?

Alternatives include "a valuable discussion", "a meaningful exchange", or "a fruitful discussion", depending on the specific context.

Is it more appropriate to say "worthwhile debate" or "valuable debate"?

Both "worthwhile debate" and "valuable debate" are grammatically correct and semantically similar. The choice between them often depends on personal preference or the specific nuance you wish to convey. "Valuable debate" might emphasize the concrete benefits derived, while "worthwhile debate" underscores the inherent merit of the discussion.

What makes a debate "worthwhile"?

A debate is "worthwhile" when it leads to increased understanding, presents diverse perspectives, encourages critical thinking, or contributes to finding solutions to complex problems.