generate debates

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "generate debates" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the act of creating or provoking discussions or arguments on a particular topic. Example: "The new policy is likely to generate debates among the stakeholders regarding its implications."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

Ms. Manji admires Ms. Hirsi Ali's determination to speak truth to power, saying that "Ayaan's defiant distrust of Muslim authorities can help generate debates that move us closer to honesty".

The New York Times

They wanted a victory to cheer, and its failure to materialize is sure to generate debates about the future direction of the Party, and whether Ossoff would have done better if he had adopted a more populist and overtly anti-Trump approach.

The New Yorker

This vexing issue would continue to generate debates amongst Newton's and Leibniz's various followers in England, and on the Continent, respectively.

SEP

Their articles generate debates and discussions around the text of each article that result in high sharing, frequent commenting and inbound traffic.

Huffington Post

And then he argues, "The uncontrolled movements of young people in poverty today, and particularly of the descendants of slaves, generate debates about educational 'reform' in much the same way that the uncontrolled movements of their insurgent ancestors generated debates about the status of slavery before the Civil War.

Huffington Post

Discussions of evidence-informed policy and practice can generate debates regarding what constitutes 'evidence' [ 1].

Health Research Policy and Systems

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

Her teaching approach tries to generate debate.

The Guardian

It also continues to generate debate about possible format changes.

The New York Times - Sports

Accused of staging a publicity stunt, Women on Waves did expect to generate debate, on both sides of the issue.

The New York Times

It may prove more controversial than his book, which continues to generate debate in political and economic circles.

Independent

The aim is to generate debate, fresh thinking and information sharing to tackle barriers to high-quality homecare and spread good practice.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "generate debates" when you want to emphasize the creation of discussions around a specific topic, often implying differing viewpoints or controversy.

Common error

Avoid using "generate debates" when a more neutral term like "foster discussion" would be more appropriate. "Generate debates" implies a degree of contention that may not always be present.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "generate debates" functions as a verb phrase used to describe the action of causing or creating discussions, often of a contentious nature. Ludwig confirms this usage, showing its appropriateness in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

17%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "generate debates" is a grammatically sound and relatively common expression used to describe the act of causing or initiating discussions, often of a contentious nature. Ludwig confirms that its usage is appropriate in a variety of contexts, particularly in news, media, and scientific publications. When employing this phrase, consider whether the context genuinely involves differing viewpoints or controversy; if not, a more neutral alternative might be more suitable. Use alternatives such as "spark discussions" or "prompt debate", depending on the intent. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase follows standard grammatical rules and is commonly used.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

prompt debate

Emphasizes causing or encouraging a debate.

trigger debates

Highlights a specific event causing a debate.

spark discussions

Focuses on initiating conversations rather than specifically debates.

create controversy

Focuses on the act of producing a contentious situation.

ignite controversy

Emphasizes the controversial aspect more strongly.

initiate discussions

Highlights starting a conversation in a formal manner.

provoke arguments

Highlights the potential for disagreement and conflict.

foster discussions

Suggests a more nurturing and positive approach to initiating conversations.

stimulate dialogues

Implies a more formal and structured exchange of ideas.

incite discussions

Suggests a more forceful or even inflammatory way of starting conversations.

FAQs

How can I use "generate debates" in a sentence?

You can use "generate debates" to describe how a topic, event, or statement causes discussion and disagreement, such as: "The politician's controversial speech is expected to "generate debates" across the country".

What are some alternatives to "generate debates"?

Some alternatives to "generate debates" include "spark discussions", "prompt debate", and "ignite controversy". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "generate debate" or "generate debates"?

"Generate debate" is acceptable when referring to a single, ongoing discussion. "Generate debates" is more appropriate when referring to multiple, distinct discussions or a series of arguments.

What kind of topics typically "generate debates"?

Topics that "generate debates" are often controversial, politically charged, or involve significant differences in opinion. Examples include social issues, ethical dilemmas, and policy changes.