debate about

USAGE SUMMARY

'debate about' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to describe a discussion, in which two or more people express different opinions about a particular topic. For example: The class had a lively debate about the merits of the new school policy.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

REMEMBER the debate about decoupling?

The Economist

No debate about what?

The Guardian

The great rock debate about authenticity began.

The New Yorker

Make this a debate about values.

The New York Times

No debate about the defense budget.

The New York Times

Healthy debate about these opinions is important.

Independent

The debate about marital surname change continues.

The Guardian - Books

So is the debate about copyright irrelevant?

The Economist

Meanwhile, debate about uniforms is still raging.

Independent

There is a debate about this rhetoric.

The New York Times

"There is always a debate about drugs.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "debate about", ensure the context clearly indicates a discussion with differing viewpoints, rather than a simple discussion.

Common error

Avoid using "debate about" when the situation simply involves an exchange of information without conflicting opinions. Opt for terms like "discussion on" or "conversation about" in such cases.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "debate about" functions as a prepositional phrase often used to introduce the subject of a discussion or argument. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in written English. Examples from Ludwig illustrate its use across diverse topics, signaling its adaptability and widespread recognition.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

25%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "debate about" is a versatile and widely used phrase that introduces topics with differing viewpoints. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, from formal academic writing to news reports. Its frequency and presence across authoritative sources such as The New York Times and The Guardian underscore its prevalence in contemporary English. When choosing alternatives, consider the specific nuance you want to convey, such as emphasizing the contention ("controversy surrounding") or simply the exchange of ideas ("discussion concerning").

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

discussion concerning

Replaces "debate" with a broader term, focusing on the act of discussing rather than the conflict of opinions.

disagreement on

Focuses specifically on the lack of consensus, using "disagreement" instead of "debate".

argument regarding

Substitutes "debate" with "argument", emphasizing a potentially stronger disagreement.

contention over

Similar to "controversy", highlights the dispute aspect more strongly.

controversy surrounding

Replaces "debate" with "controversy", highlighting the contentious nature of the topic.

conflicting opinions on

Focuses on the existence of opposing viewpoints without necessarily implying a formal debate.

dialogue pertaining to

Substitutes "debate" with "dialogue", suggesting a more collaborative and less confrontational exchange.

exchange of views on

Emphasizes the sharing of different perspectives without necessarily implying conflict.

consideration of

Emphasizes thoughtful evaluation of a subject matter, rather than the back-and-forth exchange of differing opinions.

polemic concerning

Highlights an aggressive attack on or refutation of the opinions or principles of another.

FAQs

How can I use "debate about" in a sentence?

You can use "debate about" to introduce a topic that is being discussed with differing opinions. For example, "There is a heated "debate about" the effectiveness of the new policy."

What are some alternatives to "debate about"?

Alternatives include "discussion concerning", "argument regarding", or "controversy surrounding", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "debate on" or "debate about"?

"Debate about" is more common and generally preferred in contemporary English usage. While "debate on" isn't incorrect, it's less frequently used.

What's the difference between a "debate about" and a "discussion about"?

A "debate about" implies differing opinions and a degree of contention, whereas a "discussion about" is a more neutral term for exchanging information and ideas.