is contestable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is contestable" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is open to debate or dispute, often in academic or formal contexts. Example: "The validity of the research findings is contestable, as other studies have produced different results."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

What makes ours a "secular" age, he writes, is not that it is defined by unbelief, but rather that belief is contestable and contested.

Huffington Post

That argument is contestable.

The Guardian - Opinion

As much is contestable.

The Guardian - Books

Their therapeutic status is contestable.

Social Science & Medicine

But Zhang's claim is contestable.

The Guardian

2. To show that the present politics and world vision is contestable.

Harvard University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

Aristotle believed education should "be contestable".

The Guardian - Opinion

Will the warrant application be contestable?

The Guardian

That first goal, after 34 scoreless minutes had allowed Chile to believe the game was contestable, was absolutely planned.

The New York Times - Sports

When asked about whether the warrant should be contestable, Clare appeared to keep the option open.

The Guardian - Tech

Thompson's interpretations were contestable, but his honesty and research were not.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is contestable", provide context or evidence to support why the statement is open to debate. This enhances the credibility of your analysis.

Common error

While "is contestable" is grammatically correct, it can sound overly formal or stilted in casual conversation. In less formal settings, consider using alternatives like "is debatable" or "can be challenged" to maintain a more natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is contestable" primarily functions as a predicate adjective, describing a noun or pronoun as being open to dispute or challenge. As Ludwig AI underlines, it suggests that a particular statement or idea is not definitively settled and can be reasonably opposed.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

45%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is contestable" is a grammatically sound and relatively common expression used to indicate that a statement or idea is open to debate or challenge. As Ludwig AI highlights, it functions primarily as a predicate adjective and is most frequently encountered in formal contexts such as news articles, scientific publications, and academic discussions. While alternatives like "is debatable" or "is questionable" may be suitable in less formal settings, "is contestable" serves as a precise and nuanced way to express uncertainty and invite critical evaluation of a claim. The phrase's frequent appearance in authoritative sources like The Guardian and The New York Times underscores its credibility and appropriateness in sophisticated discourse.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is debatable

Emphasizes the possibility of argument and differing opinions.

is disputable

Highlights the potential for disagreement or challenge.

is questionable

Suggests doubt or uncertainty about the validity or truth of something.

is open to question

Indicates that something can be challenged or doubted.

is challengeable

Highlights the possibility of being challenged or opposed.

is arguable

Implies that there are grounds for argument or discussion.

is subject to debate

Focuses on the idea that something is under discussion or contention.

is up for discussion

Suggests that something is being considered and is open to different viewpoints.

is a matter of opinion

Highlights the subjective nature and possibility of varied viewpoints.

is not definitive

Indicates the lack of a final or conclusive answer.

FAQs

How can I use "is contestable" in a sentence?

The phrase "is contestable" is used to indicate that a statement or idea is open to debate or challenge. For example, "The accuracy of the data "is contestable", as different methodologies yield varying results."

What phrases can I use instead of "is contestable"?

Alternatives to "is contestable" include "is debatable", "is disputable", or "is questionable". The choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "is contestable" in casual conversation?

While grammatically correct, "is contestable" may sound overly formal in casual settings. Consider using more relaxed alternatives like "is debatable" or "can be challenged".

What's the difference between "is contestable" and "is debatable"?

"Is contestable" implies that something can be argued against, while "is debatable" suggests it's a matter of opinion with valid arguments on both sides. Both are similar, but "is contestable" has a slightly more formal tone.