are being debated

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are being debated" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing topics or issues that are currently under discussion or consideration. Example: "The proposed changes to the policy are being debated in the committee meeting this afternoon."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

-- are being debated in the United States.

The New York Times

Some of those same issues are being debated today.

The New York Times

A lot of technical issues are being debated.

The Guardian

Proposals for our reconfigured finance team are being debated.

The Guardian - Opinion

The potential endocrine-disrupting effects attributed to UV filter ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate (EHMC) are being debated.

Environment International

Almost everywhere in the developed world, such laws are being debated.

The Economist

Other changes are being debated in the legislature, controlled by Republicans.

The New York Times

(Details are being debated by national representatives before a final text is ratified).

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

Two types of evolutionary explanations for the existence of [prokaryotic TEs] are being debated.

Genome Biology and Evolution

Quietly, in obscure financial journals and actuarial conferences, some alternatives are being debated.

The New York Times

Improvements to the South West's rail network are being debated in Parliament's Westminster Hall.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "are being debated", ensure that the context clearly indicates who is doing the debating and what the subject of the debate is. This adds clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "are being debated" excessively in your writing. While grammatically correct, overuse can lead to a passive tone. Consider rephrasing to use active voice where appropriate to make your writing more engaging and direct.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are being debated" functions as a verbal phrase indicating a process of discussion and argument. It highlights that a topic or issue is currently undergoing active consideration and differing viewpoints are being expressed. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

30%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "are being debated" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe topics that are currently under discussion and consideration. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely used in various contexts, particularly in news, scientific, and academic writing. When employing this phrase, clarity is key; ensure the subject and participants in the debate are evident. While useful, be mindful of potential overuse and consider active voice alternatives for a more direct style. Related phrases include "are being discussed" and "are under consideration", offering nuanced alternatives depending on the specific context. Ultimately, "are being debated" serves as a valuable tool for conveying that a subject is actively undergoing scrutiny and discussion.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are being discussed

Broader term, indicating any kind of verbal exchange, not necessarily a formal debate.

are subject to debate

Highlights the controversial nature of the topics, implying disagreement.

are under consideration

Focuses on the formal review process rather than the active back-and-forth of a debate.

are being considered

Similar to 'are under consideration', but can also apply to less formal contexts.

are being deliberated

Suggests careful and thoughtful consideration, often in a formal setting.

are up for discussion

Emphasizes the availability of the topics for discussion, adding a nuanced meaning.

are being reviewed

Focuses on the process of formal assessment or examination.

are in contention

Emphasizes the state of dispute or rivalry surrounding the topics.

are open to question

Indicates that the topics are not settled and can be challenged or doubted.

are being negotiated

Specifically relates to discussions aimed at reaching an agreement or compromise.

FAQs

How can I use "are being debated" in a sentence?

You can use "are being debated" to indicate that certain topics or issues are currently under discussion or argument. For example, "The new environmental regulations are being debated in Parliament."

What phrases can I use instead of "are being debated"?

You can use alternatives like "are being discussed", "are under consideration", or "are subject to debate" depending on the context.

Is it better to use "are being debated" or "are debated"?

"Are being debated" implies an ongoing process, while "are debated" suggests a general state. Use "are being debated" when the discussion is current and active. You might use "are debated" to describe something more timeless.

What is the difference between "are being debated" and "are being discussed"?

"Are being debated" suggests a more formal and potentially contentious discussion, involving opposing viewpoints. "Are being discussed" is a broader term that simply means a topic is being talked about, without necessarily implying disagreement.