dispute the idea

USAGE SUMMARY

"dispute the idea" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It means to argue against or challenge a particular idea, belief, or opinion. It can be used in various contexts, such as in a debate, academic paper, or discussion. Example: In the essay, the author disputes the idea that technology has made society more connected, arguing that it has actually led to increased isolation and disconnection.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Most Europeans dispute the idea of just war, he notes.

The Economist

I dispute the idea that we turn into our parents.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

And they dispute the idea that the brothers were seeking to avoid paying taxes.

The New York Times

Mr. Bloomberg's aides dispute the idea that he has lost focus or become less effective.

The New York Times

I partly dispute the idea he can't play in clutch situations.

The New York Times

Many music executives dispute the idea that the album will disappear.

The New York Times

Critics of the orthodoxy do not dispute the idea that birds evolved from reptiles.

The New York Times

But industry representatives dispute the idea that Ireland may be home to unchecked financial frauds.

The New York Times

"I dispute the idea that we've lost momentum," Mr. Zucker said.

The New York Times

Critics were quick to dispute the idea that the disarmament represented real progress.

The New York Times

And they dispute the idea that Mr. Ashcroft has failed to adequately consult with Congress.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "dispute the idea", clearly state the idea you are challenging and provide specific evidence or reasoning to support your argument.

Common error

Avoid simply stating that you "dispute the idea" without providing a clear explanation of why you disagree. Back up your disagreement with evidence and logical reasoning to make your argument convincing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "dispute the idea" functions as a verb phrase expressing disagreement or opposition to a particular concept or belief. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. As shown in many examples, it introduces a counter-argument or rebuttal.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "dispute the idea" is a widely used and grammatically correct phrase that effectively conveys disagreement with a concept or belief. Ludwig AI confirms this. It appears most frequently in news and media, science, and formal business contexts, and it is generally appropriate for neutral to formal registers. When using the phrase, it is best practice to provide specific evidence or reasoning to support your argument. Related phrases like "challenge the notion" or "contest the validity" can provide subtle variations in meaning. Remember to avoid vagueness and always back up your claims with solid arguments.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Challenge the notion

Focuses on actively questioning the validity of the idea.

Contest the validity of the idea

Emphasizes questioning the correctness or truth of the idea.

Question the premise

Highlights doubting the foundational assumptions of the idea.

Debate the concept

Suggests engaging in a formal discussion or argument about the idea.

Refute the claim

Indicates an attempt to prove the idea false or incorrect.

Argue against the proposition

Directly opposes the idea with reasoning and evidence.

Take issue with the thought

Expresses disagreement or objection to the idea.

Reject the theory

Indicates a complete dismissal of the idea as unfounded.

Call into question the assumption

Suggests doubting the underlying basis of the idea.

Express skepticism about the view

Conveys a sense of doubt or disbelief regarding the idea.

FAQs

How can I use "dispute the idea" in a sentence?

You can use "dispute the idea" to express disagreement or contradiction with a particular concept. For instance, "Critics often "dispute the idea" that economic growth always leads to increased social well-being".

What's a more formal way to say "dispute the idea"?

In more formal contexts, consider alternatives like "challenge the notion", "contest the validity of the idea", or "refute the claim". These options offer a more academic or professional tone.

Which is correct, "dispute the idea" or "dispute of the idea"?

"Dispute the idea" is the correct phrasing. The preposition "of" is unnecessary and grammatically incorrect in this context. You "dispute the idea" directly.

What's the difference between "dispute the idea" and "question the idea"?

"Dispute the idea" implies a stronger disagreement and often involves presenting counter-arguments. "Question the idea", on the other hand, suggests a more neutral inquiry or examination of the concept.