in debate with

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in debate with" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a disagreement or discussion between two or more parties on a particular topic or issue. Example: "The scholar was in debate with his colleagues about the implications of the new research findings."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

41 human-written examples

Is it possible to engage in debate with your religious critics?

The New York Times - Magazine

"A local county official cannot engage in debate with Norman Schwarzkopf.

The New York Times

And so she engages in debate with students, sympathising with their concerns.

The Guardian

The saving corollary, though, is that literature is dynamic and perpetually in debate with itself and the times.

The Guardian - Books

Now residents are locked in debate with the local authorities over the location, size and cost of their mooted replacements.

The Guardian

Quotes what was said by Jacques Chaban-Delmas for the Gaullist Resistance in debate with Col. Henri Roi-Tanguy, who was there for the Communist Resistance.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

18 human-written examples

"Not only in debates with the upper leadership, which don't exist, but also in debates" with his colleagues, he said.

The New York Times

"I would engage in debates with my opponent on the other side whenever we could," she said.

The New York Times

And I get in debates with people who are over and say, " 'Friends' is not my thing".

The New York Times - Magazine

Last year the armed forces took part in the Living Islam Festival in which Muslim personnel took part in debates with civilian Muslims.

Independent

In debates with Barack Obama, he would have been as cuttingly effective as he was in his encounters with Joe Lieberman and John Edwards in 2000 and 2004 respectively.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a less formal exchange, consider alternatives like "in discussion with" or "in conversation with".

Common error

Avoid using "in debate with" when a simpler term like "discussing" or "talking to" would suffice. Overusing formal language can make your writing sound stilted.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in debate with" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase modifying a verb. It indicates the manner in which someone is interacting with another person or entity, specifying that the interaction involves a structured disagreement or discussion. As Ludwig AI confirms, the usage is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

25%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in debate with" is a prepositional phrase used to describe a formal or structured disagreement or discussion. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is grammatically sound and acceptable for use in writing. While not as common as simpler alternatives like "in discussion with", it is suitable for neutral to formal contexts, especially in news, scientific, and encyclopedic writing. When using the phrase, ensure that it accurately reflects the nature of the interaction, as it implies a more adversarial exchange of ideas.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

debating with

A more active and direct form of debate.

locked in debate with

Implies an intense and possibly prolonged disagreement.

in discussion with

Focuses on a more general exchange of ideas, not necessarily contentious.

in dialogue with

Indicates a structured and formal exchange.

in conversation with

Emphasizes a more informal exchange.

arguing with

Highlights a strong disagreement or dispute.

contending with

Suggests a struggle or competition of ideas.

in consultation with

Suggests seeking advice or guidance as part of a discussion.

in negotiations with

Highlights a formal process of bargaining and compromise.

in conference with

Implies a meeting or gathering for discussion.

FAQs

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

You can use "in debate with" to describe a situation where two or more parties are engaged in a formal discussion or disagreement. For example, "The politician was "in debate with" his opponent about economic policy".

What are some alternatives to "in debate with"?

Some alternatives include "in discussion with", "arguing with", or "contending with", depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "in debate with" in informal writing?

While grammatically correct, "in debate with" is more suited for formal writing. In informal contexts, consider using simpler alternatives like "talking to" or "discussing with".

What's the difference between "in debate with" and "in discussion with"?

"In debate with" implies a more structured and potentially adversarial exchange, while "in discussion with" suggests a more general and collaborative exchange of ideas. The choice depends on the nature of the interaction you're describing.