disputed dates

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "disputed dates" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to dates that are subject to disagreement or controversy, often in historical or legal contexts. Example: "The historians presented their findings, but the disputed dates of the events led to further debate among the scholars."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Definitions are as disputed as dates.

The Guardian

There is little doubt that the Medieval Warm Period did exist, although scientists have disputed the dates it began and ended.

Independent

The dispute dates to 2009, when the legislation was being crafted.

The New York Times

The dispute dates to a 2001 change in Medicare and Medicaid regulations.

The New York Times

The Bajo Aguán dispute dates back 20 years, to a World Bank-funded land modernisation programme.

The Guardian

The larger dispute dates to the end of World War II, when Soviet troops occupied the islands.

The New York Times

The dispute dates to the nationalization in 2014 of the Bashneft oil company, a former subsidiary of Sistema.

The New York Times

The dispute dates from 1992, when Berkeley proposed converting a motel into a HUD-financed public housing project.

The New York Times

The dispute dates to a 2001 change in Medicare and Medicaid regulations, allowing states to opt out of a requirement that nurse anesthetists be supervised.

The New York Times

The dispute dates at least to the 18th century, when Spain and Holland skirmished over colonial boundaries in South America, and continued after gaining independence from Britain.

The New York Times

The dispute dates to the 1930's, and repeated failures to resolve it have prevented Yemen from exploring the oil potential in some border areas.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about historical events or periods, use "disputed dates" to acknowledge that there may be multiple or conflicting accounts of when something occurred. This shows a nuanced understanding of the subject matter.

Common error

Avoid presenting "disputed dates" as fact. Always acknowledge the uncertainty or conflicting perspectives to maintain credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "disputed dates" functions as an adjective-noun combination where the adjective "disputed" modifies the noun "dates". This signifies that the dates in question are subject to disagreement or debate. Ludwig AI confirms the correctness of this usage.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Encyclopedias

33%

Science

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "disputed dates" refers to dates for which there is no consensus or agreement, often arising in historical or academic contexts. Ludwig AI identifies the term as grammatically correct, although it appears relatively infrequently. Alternative phrasing could include "contested dates" or "debated dates". When using "disputed dates", it's important to acknowledge the uncertainty and provide supporting evidence when possible.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Contested dates

This alternative directly replaces "disputed" with "contested", emphasizing a challenge or argument about the dates.

Disagreed upon dates

This alternative directly describes the lack of agreement surrounding the dates.

Debated dates

This alternative replaces "disputed" with "debated", highlighting the discussion and disagreement surrounding the dates.

Controversial dates

This alternative replaces "disputed" with "controversial", emphasizing the disagreement and potentially heated debate surrounding the dates.

Questionable dates

This suggests uncertainty or doubt about the accuracy or validity of the dates.

Challenged dates

This suggests that the dates have been formally questioned or their accuracy has been put into doubt.

Uncertain dates

This emphasizes the lack of certainty or established knowledge about the dates.

Unresolved dates

This alternative highlights that the issue of the dates is not settled or agreed upon.

Dubious dates

This alternative implies skepticism or suspicion regarding the authenticity of the dates.

Disputed timeframes

This alternative replaces "dates" with "timeframes", focusing on a range of time rather than specific points.

FAQs

How can I use "disputed dates" in a sentence?

You can use "disputed dates" to indicate disagreement or uncertainty about the timing of an event, such as: "The historian noted the "contested dates" surrounding the construction of the monument." or "Definitions are as disputed as "dates".

What are some alternatives to "disputed dates"?

Alternatives include "contested dates", "debated dates", or "questionable dates", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

In what contexts is it appropriate to use the term "disputed dates"?

The term "disputed dates" is appropriate in historical, academic, or legal contexts where the precise timing of events is subject to disagreement or uncertainty.

Is it necessary to provide evidence when referring to "disputed dates"?

Yes, when referring to "disputed dates", it strengthens your argument to provide evidence or cite sources that support the different perspectives on the timing of the event.