in debate about

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in debate about" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a topic that is being argued or discussed among individuals or groups. Example: "The scientists were in debate about the implications of climate change on global ecosystems."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

37 human-written examples

The guests were deep in debate about the weather.

The New York Times

The White House still seems reluctant to engage in debate about the pipeline's merits.

The New Yorker

In debate about next steps, the voices of stalwart believers are amplified.

The Guardian - Opinion

Especially in modern Europe, literary criticism has occupied a central place in debate about cultural and political issues.

Encyclopedia Britannica

He has failed, as a political leader, to engage his own community in debate about the limitations of unionist power.

The Guardian

But, bogged down in debate about curriculum reform, I worry that we neglect our current crop of university students.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

21 human-written examples

Politics as warfare is rooted in debates about fundamental issues.

The Economist

Nowhere is this more pronounced than in debates about feminism.

Independent

But this is not remotely the case in debates about morality.

The New York Times

In debates about when artificial intelligence will come, many writers emphasize how cheap computation has become.

The New Yorker

"In debates about ancient armor, that's one of the flaws.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "in debate about", ensure that the context clearly indicates the subject being debated. Providing specific details about the debate enhances clarity.

Common error

While "in debate about" is generally acceptable, be mindful of its tone. In highly formal or academic writing, consider more precise alternatives such as "under consideration regarding" to convey a more serious tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in debate about" functions as a prepositional phrase modifying a verb or noun. It introduces the subject matter that is being discussed or argued, as seen in the Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

18%

Encyclopedias

7%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

4%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "in debate about" is a common and grammatically sound construction used to indicate that a particular subject is being argued or discussed. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is appropriate for use in written English across various contexts. While generally neutral, it's important to be mindful of the specific nuance you want to convey and to choose more formal alternatives in highly academic or professional settings. Common usage patterns show it appearing frequently in "News & Media" sources, making it relevant for discussions on current events and controversies. To ensure clarity, always specify the topic being debated. Consider using alternatives like "under discussion regarding" or "subject of contention concerning" to fine-tune your message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

up for debate regarding

Informal way to say something is being discussed.

in the midst of discussion about

Emphasizes that something is happening right now, actively.

at issue concerning

Highlights the specific point or matter that is under debate or consideration.

under discussion regarding

Emphasizes the topic is currently being examined, similar to a formal review process.

under consideration respecting

Suggests a more thoughtful and deliberate examination, implying careful thought.

in dispute regarding

Highlights the contested nature of a topic, indicating a lack of agreement.

being argued over concerning

Focuses on the act of arguing and disagreement about a particular matter.

subject of contention concerning

Highlights disagreement or dispute about a specific issue, adding a layer of conflict.

being questioned in relation to

Highlights the act of questioning and scrutinizing something, often implying doubt.

subject to controversy surrounding

Indicates that the topic is provoking public disagreement or scandal.

FAQs

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

You can use "in debate about" to indicate that a particular subject is being discussed or argued. For example, "The politicians are "in debate about" the new economic policy".

What are some alternatives to "in debate about"?

Alternatives include "under discussion regarding", "subject of contention concerning", or "being argued over concerning" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "in debate about" or "in discussion about"?

The choice depends on the context. "In debate about" suggests a more contentious or argumentative discussion, while "in discussion about" implies a more general exchange of ideas.

What is the difference between "in debate about" and "under consideration regarding"?

"In debate about" suggests active argument and disagreement, whereas "under consideration regarding" indicates a more thoughtful and evaluative process is taking place.