debatable fact

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "debatable fact" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a statement or assertion that is subject to disagreement or differing opinions regarding its validity or truth. Example: "The claim that climate change is solely caused by human activity is a debatable fact among scientists."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Evolution has somehow become a debatable fact.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

It's also is based on highly debatable facts -- relying on data and circumstances that were outside Obama's control.

Huffington Post

The percentage he mentioned, incidentally, is certainly debatable; in fact a debate broke out later between my allergist and his partner, who thought 50 or 55percentt was more like it.

The New York Times - Magazine

Whether the singers are underground or transgressive is debatable; the fact that they've brought new fashion talents into the international spotlight is not.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

While Iran's actual intentions regarding nuclear weapons may be debatable, the fact that they have repeatedly and over the course of many years emphatically disclaimed any interest in acquiring nuclear weapons is not debatable.

The Guardian - Opinion

We know how much basic chemistry students need to know before enrolling in organic chemistry, but it is far more debatable which facts, skills and habits of mind a teacher of black theatrical history ought to convey.

The New York Times - Magazine

But she said that some of what the audit called overcharges were in fact debatable contractual issues related to whether KeySpan or LIPA should pick up the cost of managing the electric grid.

The New York Times

However, the topic of whether the muddy water in the middle Yellow River run clearer remains debatable, and, in fact, response to the topic is reasonably well documented in regard to hydrological changes in the sediment source area.

Journal of Hydrology

While the clock is debatable, the important fact is that we need to do something now.

Vice

What's less debatable is the fact Victoria is not experiencing a "youth crime wave"—that claim is just not backed up by statistics.

Vice

The poem is amateur, its facts debatable.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "debatable fact", ensure that you provide context or evidence to support why the fact is being debated. This adds credibility to your statement and encourages further discussion.

Common error

Avoid using "debatable fact" when a fact is unequivocally established. This can undermine your argument and make you appear misinformed. Instead, reserve the phrase for situations where genuine uncertainty or disagreement exists.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "debatable fact" functions as a noun phrase modifier, where "debatable" (adjective) modifies "fact" (noun). It describes a fact whose validity is contested or not universally accepted. Ludwig indicates the phrase is correct and usable in written English. As evidenced by the examples, its usage is consistent across various sources.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "debatable fact" is used to describe information presented as a fact but is open to discussion or doubt. Ludwig confirms that the expression is correct and usable in English. While not extremely common, it appears in diverse sources, including News & Media and Science. The phrase functions as a noun modifier signaling uncertainty and is suitable for neutral register contexts. When using the phrase, ensure that you provide context to support why the fact is being debated. Alternatives like "disputable fact" or "contested fact" can be used to convey similar meanings depending on the nuances of the situation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

disputable fact

Changes the adjective to convey the idea of something being open to doubt or dispute.

contested fact

Emphasizes the idea that the fact is actively challenged or argued against.

arguable fact

Highlights that the fact is open to argumentation and different interpretations.

questionable fact

Indicates that the fact's validity is uncertain or dubious.

uncertain fact

Focuses on the lack of certainty surrounding the fact.

dubious fact

Suggests that the fact is suspicious or of doubtful quality.

unverified fact

Indicates that the fact has not been confirmed or proven.

unchallenged fact

Implies the inverse, that something is treated as a fact despite not being properly vetted or proved to be true.

unproven fact

Emphasizes that there is no evidence to support the supposed fact.

alleged fact

Conveys that the fact is claimed to be true but without proof.

FAQs

How can I use "debatable fact" in a sentence?

You can use "debatable fact" to describe something presented as a fact that is actually subject to debate or disagreement. For example, "Evolution has somehow become a "debatable fact"."

What's the difference between "debatable fact" and "unproven fact"?

"Debatable fact" implies that there are arguments or evidence on both sides of an issue, whereas "unproven fact" suggests that there is a lack of evidence to support the claim. Therefore, "debatable fact" suggests the presence of active discussion.

Which is correct, "debatable fact" or "disputable fact"?

Both "debatable fact" and "disputable fact" are grammatically correct. The choice between them depends on the nuance you want to convey. "Debatable" emphasizes the act of debating, while "disputable" highlights the potential for disagreement.

What can I say instead of "debatable fact"?

You can use alternatives like "contested fact", "arguable fact", or "questionable fact" depending on the specific context and the degree of uncertainty you want to express.