debatable subject

USAGE SUMMARY

'debatable subject' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a topic or issue about which there is a lot of disagreement or debate. For example, "Climate change is a debatable subject, with many people having strong opinions on either side of the issue."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

Maybe the chairman discusses a debatable subject with a few confidants among the membership, but what he decides, goes.

The New York Times - Sports

Moreover, except for a few diehards, right-wing Israelis now base their objections to handing back land to the Palestinians on security (a debatable subject), rather than on Israel's sacred rights (non-debatable).

The Economist

Rizzo defended the decision to shut down Strasburg and criticized the buzz surrounding it: "It's a good conversational piece, it's a good debatable subject.

Wikipedia

Since none of this explicitly answers the question: "When and how can the commander in chief order troops into battle in a foreign country?" it has been a debatable subject ever since.

Huffington Post

People are looking for a funny story or your opinion on a debatable subject.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

Both debatable subjects, to be sure.

Huffington Post

Treatment of burst fractures has always been one of the most debatable subjects in traumatology.

BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders

As this proposal was not substantiated by any rigorous taxonomic data and as the taxonomic position of the taxon remains unclear, debatable and subject to further research, we focus this study on the evolutionary history of this bird and adopt the commonly accepted name White-bellied Shortwing for both sub-species [17], [36].

Plosone

But these figures, when used in a political context, are often debatable and subject to broad interpretations.

Los Angeles Times

GPs should take the lead to make this subject debatable.

BMC Family Practice

Although several papers have demonstrated neurogenic control of cerebral blood flow (CBF), the subject remains debatable.

BMJ Open

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When introducing a "debatable subject", acknowledge the existence of multiple viewpoints to establish a balanced and credible tone.

Common error

Avoid presenting a "debatable subject" as an undisputed fact. Acknowledge the potential for disagreement and provide evidence or reasoning to support your perspective.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "debatable subject" functions as a noun phrase, where the adjective 'debatable' modifies the noun 'subject'. It identifies a topic or issue that is open to discussion, argument, or differing opinions. Ludwig's examples show it used to introduce topics ranging from political decisions to scientific theories.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

5%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "debatable subject" is a grammatically sound and usable phrase to refer to a topic open to discussion. While not extremely common, as indicated by Ludwig, it appears across diverse contexts like news, wikis, and scientific publications. Ludwig AI confirms its neutral register, making it suitable for various writing styles. Remember to use it to signal that the topic has multiple viewpoints to maintain objectivity and credibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

debatable question

Similar to the original phrase but frames it as a question rather than a broad subject.

controversial topic

Focuses on the divisiveness and strong opposing views surrounding the subject.

disputed matter

Emphasizes the lack of agreement and the potential for conflict over the issue.

contentious issue

Highlights the likelihood of arguments and heated debate.

arguable point

Suggests that the subject is open to interpretation and rational discussion.

questionable topic

Suggests that the validity or appropriateness of the subject is under scrutiny.

moot question

Implies that the subject's practical significance is uncertain or resolved.

open question

Indicates that the subject lacks a definitive answer and is still under consideration.

unsettled issue

Stresses the lack of a final resolution or consensus.

uncertain matter

Highlights the ambiguity and lack of clarity surrounding the subject.

FAQs

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

You can use "debatable subject" to introduce a topic that is open to discussion and disagreement. For example, "The effectiveness of standardized testing is a "debatable subject" in education policy."

What are some alternatives to "debatable subject"?

Alternatives to "debatable subject" include "controversial topic", "disputed matter", and "arguable point". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

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

Yes, "debatable subject" is appropriate for formal writing. It is a neutral and professional way to refer to a topic that is open to discussion and disagreement.

What is the difference between "debatable subject" and "controversial subject"?

While both terms refer to topics that are open to discussion, "controversial subject" often implies stronger emotions and more polarized opinions than "debatable subject".