debatable judgments

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "debatable judgments" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing opinions or decisions that are open to disagreement or differing interpretations. Example: "The committee's decision was based on debatable judgments that sparked a lively discussion among the members."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

But these will always be difficult and debatable judgments.

The Guardian - Opinion

Newham initially endorsed the Federal government's 1986 Review of Australia's Defence Capabilities, otherwise known as the Dibb Report, but shortly afterwards publicly criticised its "understanding of the application of air power" and "debatable judgments", especially its lukewarm attitude to the employment of the F-111s for strategic strike.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Hextall did a good job of restocking talent but displayed debatable judgment — and had terrible luck — with goalies.

Los Angeles Times

This argument rests on two flawed assumptions, and one debatable value judgment.

Huffington Post

The debatable value judgment is that philanthropic microlending platforms like Kiva and Zidisha should optimize predictable returns for lenders, rather than higher profits for borrowers.

Huffington Post

Are the facts presented actually facts or disguised opinions, value judgments, debatable explanatory theories, unprovable metaphysical hypotheses, prejudice, bigotry, intolerance, or fear-mongering dressed up as "facts"?

Huffington Post

They must thoroughly probe the evidence and arguments and then render an often debatable, unprovable value judgment.

The Washington Post

P. 387. 4. If the validity of the legislative classification for zoning purposes be fairly debatable, the legislative judgment must be allowed to control.

Cornell University

If the validity of the legislative classification for zoning purposes be fairly debatable, the legislative judgment must be allowed to control.

Cornell University

In sum, the argument that repeating a trivial crime justifies doubling a 25-year minimum incapacitation sentence based on a threat to the public does not raise a seriously debatable point on which judgments might reasonably differ.

The New York Times

We guess that is debatable, it is the essential judgment upon which this question turns, but that is our position.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "debatable judgments", ensure the context clearly indicates whose judgments are being debated and the basis for the debate. Providing specific examples or reasons for the disagreement strengthens your argument.

Common error

Avoid using "debatable judgments" as a vague criticism. Always specify what makes the judgments debatable and offer alternative perspectives or evidence to support your claim.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "debatable judgments" functions as a descriptive phrase, modifying a noun (judgments) with an adjective (debatable). It highlights that the judgments in question are open to discussion or disagreement. As Ludwig AI explains, it is grammatically correct. This phrase emphasizes the subjective nature of certain decisions.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

50%

Science

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "debatable judgments" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe decisions or opinions that are open to disagreement. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable in English. Although not extremely common, it appears in reputable sources like The Guardian and Wikipedia, spanning contexts from news to academic discussions. When employing this phrase, remember to provide context and specify the reasons for the debate. Alternatives like "questionable decisions" or "controversial assessments" can offer slightly different shades of meaning, depending on the desired emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

questionable decisions

Emphasizes doubt about the validity or wisdom of the decisions.

controversial assessments

Highlights the potential for strong disagreement or public debate.

disputable evaluations

Focuses on the idea that the evaluations can be challenged or argued against.

arguable conclusions

Suggests that the conclusions are open to interpretation and debate.

uncertain verdicts

Implies a lack of clarity or agreement on the final decisions.

tenuous opinions

Indicates that the opinions are weakly supported or based on flimsy evidence.

dubious rulings

Suggests that the rulings are suspicious or of questionable validity.

contentious determinations

Emphasizes that the determinations are likely to cause argument or conflict.

problematic appraisals

Highlights issues or difficulties associated with the appraisals.

debatable calls

Focuses on the controversial nature of specific decisions or actions.

FAQs

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

You can use "debatable judgments" to describe decisions or opinions that are open to disagreement or differing interpretations. For example, "The committee's decision was based on "debatable judgments" that sparked a lively discussion."

What are some alternatives to "debatable judgments"?

Alternatives include "questionable decisions", "controversial assessments", or "disputable evaluations", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

What makes a judgment "debatable"?

A judgment is "debatable" when it's based on subjective criteria, incomplete information, or differing values, leading to reasonable disagreement among informed individuals.

Is it appropriate to use "debatable judgments" in formal writing?

Yes, "debatable judgments" is appropriate for formal writing, particularly when analyzing decisions, policies, or arguments. However, ensure your analysis is well-supported with evidence and avoids personal attacks.