contestable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "contestable" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to something that can be challenged or disputed, such as an argument, claim, or decision. Example: "The validity of the research findings is contestable, as other studies have produced different results."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

(3) is obviously a contestable, and contested, claim.

SEP

Quantification, he wrote, "is more readily contestable and likely to be contested".

The Economist

It would be foolish to pretend that everything can be blamed on the shift to "contestable" educational provision.

The Guardian - Opinion

The details of the bargain were contestable; it was a shame they promised to continue Scotland's outsized share of public spending.

The Economist

If that court, too, finds for the plaintiffs expect a deluge of further suits.Along with requiring oodles of contestable rules, Dodd-Frank mandates 87 studies on big and small issues, ranging from the impact of drywall on mortgage defaults to the causes of the financial crisis.

The Economist

Evidence of asbestos injury, apart form mesothelioma and asbestosis, is heavily contestable.

The Economist

(Why is it easier for a Quaker to avoid combat duty as a conscientious objector than someone who simply deplores violence?) Furthermore, the argument goes, any positive aspects of religion can be replaced by equally beneficial non-religious substitutes.As a prelude to these contestable claims, Mr Dawkins examines the interesting question of why religion is so widespread.

The Economist

That may, in some respects, be a contestable project.

The Economist

If we simply assume methodological nationalism, the opposite of methodological Lennonism, it seems that we will have smuggled in a set of highly contestable moral premises about the legitimacy and priority of national interests.

The Economist

The idea behind the CIA's rendition programme was to escape legal oversight by shipping detainees to third countries, where the application of both American and local laws would be contestable.

The Economist

The AustralAsia Railway Corporation, which oversaw the line's construction, says it has captured more than 90% of "contestable freight" on the Alice-Darwin corridor.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "contestable" to describe claims or statements where disagreement or counter-arguments are expected or possible. It is suitable for formal and academic writing.

Common error

Avoid using "contestable" in casual conversation or informal writing. Simpler words like "debatable" or "arguable" may be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The word "contestable" functions primarily as an adjective. It modifies nouns to indicate that something is capable of being disputed or challenged. Examples from Ludwig showcase its use in academic, news, and general contexts, affirming Ludwig AI's assessment of its correct and versatile application.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Unknown

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "contestable" is a grammatically sound and frequently used adjective that signifies something is open to dispute or challenge. As Ludwig AI confirms, it appears extensively across diverse contexts, particularly in news, scientific, and encyclopedic sources. While effective in formal writing, it's advisable to opt for simpler alternatives in casual settings. When employing "contestable", writers signal the potential for disagreement and encourage critical evaluation. Its widespread usage underscores its importance in expressing nuanced perspectives across a range of disciplines and discussions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

debatable

Implies something is open to discussion or argument.

disputable

Highlights the potential for disagreement or questioning.

arguable

Suggests there are valid arguments on both sides.

questionable

Indicates doubt or uncertainty about the validity of something.

contentious

Emphasizes the likelihood of causing disagreement or controversy.

open to debate

Directly states the availability for discussion and differing opinions.

subject to challenge

Highlights that something can be formally contested.

liable to be challenged

Indicates a probability of being questioned or opposed.

susceptible to dispute

Emphasizes the vulnerability to being argued against.

not set in stone

Conveys that something is not final and can be changed or disputed.

FAQs

How can I use "contestable" in a sentence?

"Contestable" is used to describe something that can be disputed or challenged. For instance, "The evidence presented was "open to question".".

What are some alternatives to "contestable"?

Alternatives to "contestable" include "debatable", "disputable", and "arguable". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is "contestable" formal or informal?

"Contestable" is generally considered a formal word, suitable for academic, professional, or journalistic writing. In more casual settings, simpler synonyms might be preferred.

What's the difference between "contestable" and "controversial"?

"Contestable" means something is open to debate or challenge, while "controversial" means something is likely to cause strong disagreement or public debate. Something "open to question" may not necessarily be controversial, and vice versa.