debatable questions

USAGE SUMMARY

"debatable questions" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It refers to questions or topics that can be argued or discussed. You can use this phrase when you want to describe a topic that may have multiple viewpoints or is open to debate. Example: The class was asked to write an essay on debatable questions in politics. Some students chose to write about gun control and others chose to write about immigration policies.

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

Some debatable questions regarding to the mixtures are also answered.

Applied Thermal Engineering

At the Millennium School, students engage in interdisciplinary Quests that center on broad, debatable questions.

University of California, Berkeley

Even this rule is not applied with strict precision, for this Court has often said that "debatable questions as to reasonableness are not for the courts, but for the legislature..

Cornell University

Now all these are debatable questions, on which opinions vary wildly across the left-of-centre spectrum within Labour and within the Lib Dems, as much as between the two parties.

The Guardian

The course will be structured as follows: every other week, we will hear hour-long graduate student talks about sustainability questions and their research, and on the off weeks, we will discuss the unanswered, debatable questions that relate to the previous week's talk.

Stanford University

Debatable questions were further discussed among the authors until full agreement was reached.

International Journal of STEM Education

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

That is an endlessly debatable question.

The Economist

It's not a debatable question".

The Guardian - Opinion

What is a more debatable question is when — or even if — all those investments will truly pay off.

The New York Times - Tech

I think that's a much more interesting (and debatable) question than 'Do women have what it takes?'" Ms. Green said.

The New York Times

One way in which search engines are clearly superior to libraries (a debatable question overall) is that they are entirely welcoming of frivolous curiosity, no matter where you might be or what you might be doing.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "debatable questions" to frame discussions or arguments, encouraging a balanced and thoughtful examination of different perspectives.

Common error

Avoid presenting factual information as a "debatable question" when there is overwhelming evidence supporting it. Ensure that the topic genuinely has multiple, supportable viewpoints.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "debatable questions" functions as a noun phrase modified by an adjective. It identifies topics or issues that are open to discussion and argument. As Ludwig AI explains, this phrase highlights subjects where different viewpoints can be reasonably supported.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Academia

40%

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "debatable questions" is a grammatically sound and useful phrase for introducing topics that invite discussion and diverse perspectives. As indicated by Ludwig AI, it's suitable for a range of contexts, including academic, news, and general discussions. While not extremely common, its consistent usage in reputable sources and adaptability make it a valuable tool for framing arguments and encouraging critical thinking. When using "debatable questions", ensure the topic genuinely has multiple, supportable viewpoints, and frame the questions in a way that invites constructive dialogue. Alternatives like "controversial issues" or "open questions" can provide nuanced variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

controversial issues

Focuses on the contentious nature of the topics.

disputable matters

Emphasizes the possibility of disagreement or challenge.

unsettled questions

Highlights the lack of a definitive resolution.

open questions

Suggests that the questions are still under consideration and without a definitive answer.

unresolved issues

Focuses on the lack of agreement or solution.

contentious topics

Highlights the likelihood of argument or debate.

arguable points

Emphasizes that the points are open to debate and differing opinions.

moot points

Suggests that the points are uncertain or speculative.

pending questions

Highlights that questions remain to be answered.

up for debate

Indicates that the topic is open for discussion and argument.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "debatable questions" in academic writing?

In academic writing, use "debatable questions" to introduce topics that lack a single, definitive answer. Frame these questions clearly and objectively to encourage critical thinking and balanced discussion. For instance, instead of presenting a biased statement, pose it as a "debatable question" to explore various perspectives.

What are some alternatives to using "debatable questions" in my writing?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "controversial issues", "disputable matters", or "open questions". These phrases convey a similar meaning while offering a slightly different nuance.

Is it appropriate to use "debatable questions" in formal business communication?

Yes, it can be appropriate, particularly when addressing strategic decisions or policy matters. However, ensure that the tone remains professional and objective. Frame the "debatable questions" in a way that invites constructive dialogue rather than conflict.

How does the usage of "debatable questions" differ from "questionable questions"?

"Debatable questions" are those that have valid arguments on multiple sides, inviting discussion and exploration. In contrast, "questionable questions" often imply doubt or suspicion regarding the validity or ethics of the question itself.