arguable distinction

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "arguable distinction" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a difference or separation between two concepts that can be debated or questioned. Example: "There is an arguable distinction between freedom of speech and hate speech, which often leads to heated discussions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

At the time of Gantz's announcement—"A great light is shining," he said his party had the arguable distinction of averaging slightly more seats than the Likud in wildly divergent projections that the major news channels reckoned from the exit polls.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

At the same time, cancer likening to other diseases seems arguable as it ignores one cardinal distinction.

Clinical Epigenetics

However, the distinction between source and destination models is arguable; for example, many musical instruments create tonal components and biological evolution presumably leads to a tight connection between destination and source characteristics.

EURASIP Journal on Audio, Speech, and Music Processing

This should mean that in those countries that grant access to marriage for all couples, any distinction between same-sex and heterosexual marriage would be arguable discrimination under the convention.

The Guardian

Regardless of the academic distinction between theory of evolution and concept of evolution (above), or the arguable content of this narrative, the students (and professors) think of evolution as described in the statement (see Observation 2, below, for more on this topic).

Evolution: Education and Outreach

It is arguable that Russell's definition of definite descriptions was the most prominent early example of the philosophical distinction between surface grammatical form and logical form, and thus marks the beginnings of linguistic analysis as a method in philosophy.

SEP

Both questions are arguable.

The Economist

But that is arguable.

Encyclopedia Britannica

That's arguable.

The New Yorker

It's arguable".

The Guardian - Money

Insane is arguable.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "arguable distinction", be prepared to support your claim with evidence or reasoning, as the phrase inherently suggests that the difference is open to interpretation or debate.

Common error

Avoid presenting an "arguable distinction" as a definitive or universally accepted truth. Always acknowledge the potential for differing perspectives or interpretations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "arguable distinction" functions as a qualifier to a noun, specifically to describe a distinction that is subject to debate or disagreement. It sets the stage for presenting differing viewpoints or evidence that may challenge the validity of the distinction itself. Ludwig AI highlights its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

33%

Encyclopedias

32%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "arguable distinction" is a grammatically correct and usable expression, though relatively rare in its occurrence. According to Ludwig, it is appropriate when highlighting a difference or separation that can be debated or questioned. Its usage tends to be more common in news, science, and encyclopedic contexts, suggesting a neutral to formal register. When employing this phrase, ensure you're prepared to support your claim, acknowledging potential alternative viewpoints, as this expression highlights that the distinction is open to interpretation or debate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

debatable difference

Focuses on the difference being open to debate.

contestable distinction

Emphasizes the point that the distinction can be challenged.

disputable difference

Highlights that the difference is not universally accepted.

questionable distinction

Suggests doubt about the validity of the distinction.

dubious distinction

Implies a strong skepticism about the distinction's legitimacy.

uncertain difference

Indicates a lack of clarity or certainty regarding the difference.

tenuous distinction

Suggests the distinction is weak or not well-supported.

debatable point of differentiation

More verbose, focusing on the aspect of differentiation being debatable.

contentious point of separation

More formal, highlighting the controversial aspect of the separation.

contested difference

Stresses the active opposition to the recognition of the difference.

FAQs

How can I use "arguable distinction" in a sentence?

You can use "arguable distinction" to introduce a point of difference that is not clear-cut or universally agreed upon. For example, "There's an "arguable distinction" between healthy eating and obsessive dieting".

What are some alternatives to "arguable distinction"?

Some alternatives include "debatable difference", "contestable distinction", or "questionable distinction". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "arguable distinction" or "clear distinction"?

The choice depends on the context. Use "clear distinction" when the difference is obvious and well-established. Use "arguable distinction" when the difference is open to debate or interpretation.

What makes a distinction "arguable"?

A distinction is "arguable" when there are valid reasons to question its existence, significance, or the boundaries that define it. This often occurs when dealing with subjective concepts or complex issues.