intelligent debates

USAGE SUMMARY

"intelligent debates" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to describe discussions that are thoughtful, well-reasoned, and informed. For example, "The conference featured intelligent debates on climate change solutions." Alternative expressions include "thoughtful discussions" and "insightful dialogues."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science & Research

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

"We have had some intelligent debates," he said.

The New York Times

The silence of most academies in the big LGBT debate is alarming, as these institutions are the best place to trigger intelligent debates and educate citizens.

Science Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

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

The Economist

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

The Guardian

"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

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

And why would Quentin Tarantino "shut your butt down", instead of welcoming an intelligent debate on Django Unchained?

The Guardian - Opinion

"If I can quote Michael Grade [of ITV], I think there is an intelligent debate to be had... about consolidation".

The Guardian

One of them, Ken Clarke, said he was enjoying the opportunity to have an "intelligent debate about the national interest".

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "intelligent debates" to describe discussions that are not only informed but also demonstrate critical thinking and nuanced understanding of the topic.

Common error

While "intelligent debates" is a valid phrase, it can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Opt for simpler alternatives like "smart discussions" or "thoughtful conversations" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "intelligent debates" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where the adjective "intelligent" modifies the noun "debates". It describes the quality of the debates, indicating that they are characterized by thoughtfulness and informed reasoning. Ludwig confirms that "intelligent debates" is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Science & Research

34%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "intelligent debates" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe high-quality discussions characterized by informed reasoning and critical thinking. While Ludwig confirms its validity, the phrase is relatively rare, primarily appearing in news and media contexts and science. For more informal settings, simpler alternatives like "thoughtful discussions" may be more appropriate. To describe discussions that are not only informed but also demonstrate critical thinking and nuanced understanding of the topic is best used in formal and professional contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

thoughtful discussions

Focuses on the careful and considered nature of the discussions, differing from "intelligent debates" by emphasizing thoughtfulness over intellectual rigor.

insightful dialogues

Highlights the depth and perceptive quality of the conversations, changing the emphasis to insightful exchange rather than intellectual argument.

well-reasoned arguments

Emphasizes the logical and coherent structure of the arguments presented, instead of the general quality of debate.

informed discussions

Stresses that the discussions are based on accurate and up-to-date information, unlike "intelligent debates" that is a wider context.

enlightening conversations

Highlights the educational and revealing aspect of the conversations, shifting the focus from debate to enlightenment.

stimulating discussions

Emphasizes the engaging and thought-provoking nature of the discussions, rather than the intelligence behind the debates.

high-level discussions

Indicates the advanced or sophisticated nature of the discussions, differing from "intelligent debates" by focusing on the level of sophistication.

scholarly arguments

Highlights the academic and research-oriented nature of the arguments, while "intelligent debates" is more generic.

intellectual discourse

Emphasizes formal and academic discussion, changing the expression toward a more professional context.

reasoned exchanges

Focuses on the logical and rational nature of the exchanges, but the overall meaning is the same.

FAQs

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

You can use "intelligent debates" to describe discussions that are well-reasoned and informed. For example, "The conference featured "intelligent debates" on climate change solutions."

What are some alternatives to "intelligent debates"?

Alternatives include "thoughtful discussions", "insightful dialogues", and "well-reasoned arguments" depending on the specific context.

Is "intelligent debates" formal or informal?

"Intelligent debates" leans towards a more formal register, suitable for academic, professional, or news contexts. In casual settings, simpler alternatives may be more appropriate.

What makes a debate "intelligent"?

An "intelligent debate" involves participants who are well-informed, articulate their points clearly, engage with opposing viewpoints respectfully, and demonstrate critical thinking skills.