intelligent debate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "intelligent debate" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to describe a discussion that is thoughtful, reasoned, and based on sound arguments. For example: "The conference featured an intelligent debate on climate change policies." Alternative expressions include "thoughtful discussion" and "reasoned discourse."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The station's website advertised Bonsu's show as offering "intelligent debate".

The Guardian

Intelligent debate should be begun between scientists and laymen, with the aim of establishing protocols.

The Economist

He systematically shreds the inflammatory political rhetoric that is often used to shut down intelligent debate.

Princeton University

The American people deserve an intelligent debate, and this isn't one.

The New York Times - Magazine

Instead, we heard a calm, intelligent debate which highlighted all too vividly the dangers ahead.

The Guardian

That material merits a much more intelligent debate than the one provided by 'Kremlinologists'Kremlinologists

The Guardian - Books

"I think I'm just interested in intelligent debate, and I can find anything interesting".

The Guardian

By personalising the constitution, intelligent debate is cast as a personal attack.

The Guardian - Opinion

"What I like," he said, "is that it's an intelligent debate about my homeland.

The Guardian

He said a sensible and intelligent debate was needed with the oil industry.

The Guardian

Now Hilary Mantel, the novelist, has accused newspapers of compromising freedom through a bullying mentality that stifles intelligent debate.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "intelligent debate" when you want to emphasize the high quality of the discussion, focusing on reason, evidence, and respectful exchange of ideas.

Common error

While "intelligent debate" is appropriate in many settings, avoid using it excessively in casual conversations. Simpler terms like "good discussion" or "interesting conversation" may be more suitable in informal contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "intelligent debate" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "intelligent" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "debate". Ludwig's examples show it describes the type or quality of a discussion. Ludwig AI confirms this is a valid and usable English phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Academia

10%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Science

1%

Wiki

0.5%

Reference

0.5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "intelligent debate" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe high-quality discussions characterized by reason and evidence. Ludwig highlights its frequent use in news and media, as well as academic contexts. While versatile, it's best suited for neutral to formal settings, where emphasizing the thoughtfulness of the exchange is desired. For less formal settings, consider alternatives like "good discussion" or "interesting conversation". Ludwig AI's analysis supports its validity and broad applicability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

informed discussion

Emphasizes the knowledge and information that participants bring to the discussion.

reasoned argument

Highlights the logical and rational nature of the discussion.

thoughtful discourse

Focuses on the depth and consideration given to the topic.

productive exchange of ideas

Stresses the beneficial outcome and collaborative nature of the discussion.

constructive dialogue

Highlights the positive and building nature of the conversation.

enlightened conversation

Suggests a conversation that leads to greater understanding and awareness.

scholarly discussion

Implies a discussion with a high level of academic rigor.

intellectual exchange

Focuses on the mental and cognitive aspects of the discussion.

substantive conversation

Emphasizes the depth and significance of the topic discussed.

rational deliberation

Highlights the use of reason and careful consideration in the discussion.

FAQs

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

You can use "intelligent debate" to describe a high-quality discussion, as in "The article sparked an "intelligent debate" among scholars." or "We need to foster "intelligent debate" on important policy issues."

What are some synonyms for "intelligent debate"?

Alternatives to "intelligent debate" include "informed discussion", "reasoned argument", and "thoughtful discourse", which all emphasize the quality of the discussion.

Is it better to say "smart debate" or "intelligent debate"?

While "smart debate" is understandable, "intelligent debate" is generally preferred in formal writing. "Intelligent" emphasizes thoughtfulness and reasoned analysis, whereas "smart" often implies quickness or cleverness.

What's the difference between "debate" and "intelligent debate"?

"Debate" simply refers to a discussion or argument. Adding "intelligent" specifies that the debate is characterized by reason, evidence, and a high level of understanding. An "intelligent debate" therefore implies a more thoughtful and informed exchange than a regular debate.