is debatable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is debatable" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a topic or opinion that is open to argument or differing viewpoints. Example: "The effectiveness of the new policy is debatable among experts in the field."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This is debatable.

Yale University

The claim is debatable.

The Economist

That point is debatable.

The New York Times - Food

That target is debatable.

The Economist

That is debatable.

The Economist

That assumption is debatable.

The New York Times

That link is debatable.

The New York Times

All this is debatable.

The Guardian - Music

(This point is debatable).

The New Yorker

Who owns what is debatable.

The Economist

The right approach is debatable.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is debatable" when you want to acknowledge that different viewpoints exist on a topic. Avoid using it when presenting facts that are generally accepted as true.

Common error

Avoid using "is debatable" excessively to weaken strong arguments or hide a lack of evidence. If a point is genuinely well-supported, present the evidence clearly instead of casting doubt unnecessarily.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is debatable" functions as a qualifier, indicating that a statement or idea is not definitively true or universally accepted. Ludwig examples show it used to introduce uncertainty or differing opinions on various topics.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

51%

Science

28%

Academia

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

9%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is debatable" serves as a crucial tool for expressing uncertainty and inviting discussion. Ludwig's analysis confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used across a wide range of sources, including news outlets, academic papers, and scientific publications. The primary function of "is debatable" is to acknowledge the existence of differing viewpoints or a lack of definitive evidence, making it a valuable asset for balanced and nuanced communication. Alternatives such as "is open to question" or "is subject to debate" offer similar, yet subtly different, ways to convey the same meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is open to question

Focuses on the uncertainty surrounding the topic.

is subject to debate

Highlights that the issue is actively being discussed and argued.

is a matter of contention

Emphasizes the disagreement and dispute associated with the topic.

is an arguable point

Suggests that there are valid arguments on both sides.

is not settled

Indicates that there is no definitive answer or resolution.

remains unresolved

Implies that the issue has not been decided or clarified.

is up for discussion

Highlights the possibility of further conversation and consideration.

is uncertain

Focuses on the lack of clarity and predictability surrounding the topic.

is contestable

Suggests the statement can be challenged.

is disputable

Indicates the statement is capable of being argued against.

FAQs

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

The phrase "is debatable" is used to indicate that a statement or idea is not universally accepted and can be argued from different points of view. For example, "Whether that approach is the most efficient "is debatable"."

What are some alternatives to "is debatable"?

You can use alternatives like "is open to question", "is subject to debate", or "is contestable" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "is debatable" in formal writing?

Yes, it is appropriate, especially when presenting different sides of an argument or acknowledging uncertainty. However, ensure that your writing remains objective and that you provide evidence or reasoning to support your claims.

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

"Is debatable" suggests that there are arguments for and against a statement, whereas "is uncertain" implies a lack of knowledge or predictability. The former invites discussion, while the latter highlights a lack of clarity.