considerable debate

USAGE SUMMARY

'considerable debate' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a discussion that has gone on for a long period of time or when referring to a discussion that has been intensive and thorough. For example, "There has been considerable debate about the need for new regulations in this area."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

There has been considerable debate about PBL, and attitudes towards the approach vary considerably.

BMC Medical Education

This effort gave rise to considerable debate.

Encyclopedia Britannica

There's considerable debate about that".

The New York Times

The issue has sparked considerable debate.

The Guardian

His legacy still stirs considerable debate.

The New York Times

It is subject to considerable debate and controversy.

Current Opinion in Environmental Sustainability

The issue has incited considerable debate and, increasingly, legal action.

The New York Times - Tech

On that, even among Iran hawks, there is considerable debate.

The Washington Post

Considerable debate surrounds the source of the Moon illusion.

Britannica

There is however considerable debate concerning this linkage12,13.

Nature

There's considerable debate about what, exactly, linothoraxes were made of.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "considerable debate" to introduce a balanced discussion of opposing viewpoints. This signals to the reader that multiple perspectives exist and will be explored.

Common error

Avoid using "considerable debate" when the disagreement is minor or localized. Ensure the discussion truly warrants the descriptor "considerable" to maintain credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "considerable debate" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It typically introduces a topic that is subject to widespread discussion and disagreement. As demonstrated by Ludwig, it sets the stage for exploring different perspectives on a particular issue.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

54%

News & Media

29%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Academia

8%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "considerable debate" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression, as confirmed by Ludwig. It serves to introduce topics characterized by significant discussion and disagreement. Predominantly found in scientific and news contexts, the phrase maintains a neutral to formal tone, making it suitable for academic, professional, and journalistic writing. When using this phrase, ensure that the debate is genuinely significant to avoid overstatement. Alternatives such as "extensive discussion" or "significant disagreement" may be more appropriate depending on the specific context. Therefore, use "considerable debate" judiciously to signal the existence of multiple perspectives and invite further exploration of the topic at hand.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

extensive discussion

Focuses on the breadth and thoroughness of the discussion.

significant disagreement

Highlights the level of disagreement more directly.

lively controversy

Emphasizes the energetic and potentially contentious nature of the debate.

ongoing dispute

Stresses the continuous and unresolved nature of the debate.

heated argument

Implies a more intense and possibly emotional debate.

much contention

Highlights the presence of strong opposition and conflicting viewpoints.

intense deliberation

Focuses on careful and thorough consideration amidst differing views.

public controversy

Emphasizes that the debate is happening in the public sphere.

serious contention

Highlights the gravity and importance of the debate.

widespread disagreement

Indicates that the disagreement is prevalent among many people.

FAQs

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

You can use "considerable debate" to introduce a topic that has multiple, often conflicting, viewpoints. For example, "There is "considerable debate" surrounding the effectiveness of the new policy".

What are some alternatives to "considerable debate"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "extensive discussion", "significant disagreement", or "lively controversy".

Is it appropriate to use "considerable debate" in formal writing?

Yes, "considerable debate" is suitable for formal writing, particularly in academic and professional contexts, as it accurately describes a situation with significant disagreement.

What's the difference between "considerable debate" and "minor disagreement"?

"Considerable debate" suggests a significant and widespread discussion with strong opposing viewpoints. "Minor disagreement", on the other hand, implies a smaller, less impactful difference of opinion.