extensive debate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "extensive debate" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a thorough and detailed discussion on a particular topic or issue. Example: "The proposal was met with extensive debate among the committee members before a final decision was reached."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Congress passed the law unanimously in October 1998 without extensive debate.

The New York Times

Second, there was extensive debate about the role of the Committee on Climate Change.

The Guardian

Other schools, including Stanford and the University of California system, rejected bans after extensive debate.

The New York Times

We have also begun to understand the need for extensive debate in the search for solutions as well.

The Guardian

A series of first selectmen who preceded Ms. Prince engaged in extensive debate about what to do with the property.

The New York Times

Gone are the extensive debate rehearsals, the bickering consultants, the corporate dress code and the urge to explain everything.

The New York Times

Riders generally are not subjected to hearings or extensive debate, and many would not survive on their own.

The New York Times

But after extensive debate largely on procedural matters, the call for a referendum failed with some original petitioners voting against it.

The New York Times

The P.S.A. test was not widely used until the 1990's, and there has been extensive debate about its value as a screening test.

The New York Times

The filing of financial records late last month followed extensive debate over whether the defendants were providing a clear picture of their assets, as requested by the plaintiffs.

The New York Times

Whether or not the Tablet would support has been a topic of extensive debate.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "extensive debate", ensure that the context provides evidence of the depth and scope of the discussion. Avoid using it for superficial disagreements or brief exchanges.

Common error

Avoid using "extensive debate" to describe minor disagreements or brief arguments. This phrase implies a significant and prolonged discussion with substantial depth and breadth. Instead, use words like "disagreement", "dispute", or "brief discussion".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "extensive debate" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a process of thorough discussion, which, according to Ludwig AI, can be considered acceptable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

42%

News & Media

32%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "extensive debate" is a grammatically correct and widely used expression denoting a thorough and detailed discussion, frequently employed across diverse fields such as science, news, and formal communications. Ludwig AI affirms its validity in written English. Its primary function is to emphasize the depth and scope of discussions, often indicating a level of controversy or complexity. While synonyms like "widespread debate" or "thorough debate" can be used, it's crucial to reserve "extensive debate" for scenarios genuinely characterized by in-depth analysis and diverse perspectives, avoiding its misapplication to minor disagreements. Its widespread usage and presence in authoritative sources underscore its importance in conveying significant and prolonged discussions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

widespread debate

Changes intensity by emphasizing breadth of discussion rather than depth.

extensive discussion

Replaces "debate" with "discussion", suggesting a more collaborative exchange.

exhaustive debate

Highlights the thoroughness and completeness of the discussion.

wide debate

Similar to "widespread debate", focusing on the breadth of participation.

intense debate

Emphasizes the high level of engagement and potential disagreement.

thorough debate

Focuses on the completeness and depth of the discussion.

detailed debate

Highlights the level of specific information covered in the discussion.

substantial debate

Indicates a considerable amount of discussion or argument.

prolonged discussion

Focuses on the temporal aspect, indicating the discussion lasted a long time.

considerable controversy

Shifts focus to the contentious nature of the topic being discussed.

FAQs

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

You can use "extensive debate" to describe situations where a topic has been discussed thoroughly and in detail, often involving multiple viewpoints. For example, "There was "extensive debate" about the new policy before it was implemented."

What are some synonyms for "extensive debate"?

Alternatives to "extensive debate" include "widespread debate", "thorough debate", or "prolonged discussion". The best choice depends on the specific context and the aspect you want to emphasize.

Is it better to use "extensive debate" or "extensive discussion"?

"Extensive debate" implies a level of disagreement or argument, while "extensive discussion" suggests a more collaborative exchange of ideas. Choose the phrase that accurately reflects the nature of the interaction. So when the setting involved substantial disagreement is better to choose "extensive debate" over "extensive discussion".

What does "extensive debate" imply about the topic being discussed?

"Extensive debate" suggests that the topic is complex, controversial, or has significant implications. It implies that the topic has been examined from various angles and that different perspectives have been considered.