debatable point

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "debatable point" is correct and usable in written English.
You could use this phrase to refer to an opinion or idea that is open to discussion and debate. For example, "The mayor's stance on education reform is a debatable point that has been discussed extensively in public forums."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

49 human-written examples

That's at least a debatable point, though I think it's a stupid and ridiculous debate -- even if we could figure it out, who cares about the average humor level of the sexes?

Huffington Post

It's a debatable point".

The New York Times

The debatable point is whether it is a playoff team.

The New York Times - Sports

"As the technology keeps on changing, whether it is a growth business is a debatable point".

The New York Times

Whether the act applies to the Plame outing is a debatable point.

The New Yorker

How long this transition period would last was a debatable point.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

11 human-written examples

Debatable points; but what is beyond debate is that Mr Assad himself is in a pickle.

The Economist

Those are certainly debatable points, but the senators are not having a constitutional debate, except in the sense that, rhetorically, each of them is sure that his own view is closer to the Constitution's traditions and aspirations.

Huffington Post

I know that a lot of people wish we lived in a country where debates about things like health care policy were serious, honest discussions of debatable points.

The New York Times

By my count, The New York Times crossword had 18 errors during the past 12 months, not counting debatable points -- most of these mistakes noticed by only one or two people.

The New York Times - Magazine

Of course, when there is a need for further factfinding or for proceedings best conducted in the lower courts, or where the ultimate question to be decided depends on debatable points of law that have not been briefed or argued, we regularly determine that the best course is to remand.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "debatable point", clearly articulate the different perspectives or arguments surrounding the issue to foster a balanced and informed discussion.

Common error

Avoid labeling a widely accepted fact as a "debatable point". Use the phrase when genuine disagreement or multiple valid viewpoints exist.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "debatable point" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject complement or object of a preposition. Ludwig's examples show it introducing topics open to discussion.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

20%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

4%

Academia

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "debatable point" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that introduces topics with varying perspectives. According to Ludwig, it's prevalent in news, science, and encyclopedic contexts. When using this phrase, ensure genuine disagreement exists, and consider alternatives like "arguable issue" or "contentious topic" for nuanced expression. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's validity and provides numerous examples of its usage in authoritative sources.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

arguable issue

Focuses on the contestable nature of the topic.

disputable matter

Highlights the possibility of questioning or challenging the subject.

contentious topic

Emphasizes the likelihood of causing disagreement or argument.

questionable aspect

Implies uncertainty or doubt about a specific element.

controversial subject

Stresses the potential for widespread disagreement and public debate.

moot point

Suggests that the issue may be academic or of little practical significance.

open question

Indicates that the matter remains unresolved and subject to different interpretations.

unsettled question

Highlights that the issue has not been definitively decided or resolved.

matter of opinion

Emphasizes the subjective nature of the issue and the role of personal beliefs.

point of contention

Directly indicates a specific element that causes disagreement.

FAQs

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

You can use "debatable point" to introduce a topic where different viewpoints exist. For example: "Whether or not online education is as effective as traditional schooling is a "debatable point"."

What are some alternatives to saying "debatable point"?

You can use alternatives like "arguable issue", "disputable matter", or "contentious topic" depending on the context.

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

Yes, "debatable point" is suitable for formal writing as it clearly indicates an issue open to discussion. However, ensure the context warrants genuine debate and isn't a widely accepted fact.

What's the difference between "debatable point" and "moot point"?

A ""debatable point"" is open for discussion and has varying viewpoints. A "moot point", on the other hand, is a point that may be irrelevant or academic, often no longer of practical significance.