debating about

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "debating about" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you want to refer to a discussion about a particular topic. For example, "The students were debating about the effects of climate change."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

"I have all the requisite stuff that everyone's been debating about," Dr. Hamer said.

The New York Times

"When debating about God or with one another," Wolpe wrote, "analysis carries us only so far.

Huffington Post

There will be no debating about that".

The New York Times - Sports

Debating about going to the bodega for Doritos.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

This boy, aged 17, is debating about his first grand passion.

The New Yorker

"Please stop debating about whether or not I have aged well.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

REMEMBER the debate about decoupling?

The Economist

No debate about what?

The Guardian

No debate about the defense budget.

The New York Times

Healthy debate about these opinions is important.

Independent

No more debates about Bain Capital.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using a stronger verb if you want to emphasize the intensity of the discussion. For instance, instead of "debating about", use "arguing over" to convey a more heated exchange.

Common error

Be mindful of potential redundancy. While "debating about" is acceptable, sometimes simply using "debating" can be more concise, especially if the context makes the subject clear.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "debating about" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a verb, typically describing the act of engaging in a discussion or argument concerning a specific topic. Ludwig indicates the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "debating about" is a grammatically correct and commonly used prepositional phrase that describes the act of discussing or arguing a particular topic. According to Ludwig, while acceptable, some consider it slightly redundant compared to simply using "debating". Its usage is widespread across various contexts, particularly in news and media, suggesting a neutral register. When using "debating about", ensure clarity by specifying the topic being discussed. While recognized as grammatically sound, consider the context and choose the most appropriate and concise phrasing for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Discussing

This alternative is more general, simply referring to the act of talking about something without necessarily implying a formal debate.

Arguing about

This alternative suggests a more confrontational discussion, implying disagreement or opposition.

Considering

This alternative implies a more thoughtful and reflective examination of a topic.

Deliberating on

This alternative suggests a more formal and structured discussion, often involving a group decision-making process.

Contemplating

Implies a deep and often solitary consideration of a topic.

Negotiating

Focuses on reaching an agreement through discussion and compromise.

Questioning

Implies an inquiry or doubt about something, prompting further discussion.

Examining

Suggests a detailed and careful investigation of a subject.

Analyzing

Focuses on breaking down a topic into its component parts for a better understanding.

Addressing

Refers to directly dealing with or discussing a particular issue or topic.

FAQs

What can I say instead of "debating about"?

You can use alternatives like "discussing", "arguing about", or "considering" depending on the context.

Is "debating about" grammatically correct?

Yes, "debating about" is grammatically correct, although some may consider it slightly redundant since "debating" already implies "about" something. The phrase is commonly used and understood.

How to use "debating about" in a sentence?

You can use "debating about" to describe a discussion or argument on a particular topic. For example, "The politicians were debating about the new environmental policy."

What's the difference between "debating about" and "debating"?

While "debating about" and "debating" are often interchangeable, "debating" is typically more concise. The inclusion of "about" is acceptable and doesn't change the meaning significantly, though some consider it less formal.