it is debatable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is debatable" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when there are two or more opinions about a subject and it is not clear which view has more validity. For example: "It is debatable whether or not education should be free for everyone."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It is debatable whether this is true.

The Guardian

It is debatable whether he has to.

The Guardian - Opinion

It is debatable, however, whether such comparison is always possible.

Ecological Indicators

But it is debatable whether AR can achieve perfect fit.

The New York Times

It is debatable who has gained the advantage.

The New York Times

Whether it ever existed as we conceive it is debatable.

The New York Times - Books

It is debatable whether they exist any more.

The Guardian - Sport

It is debatable whether we would have been.

The Guardian - Sport

Less than 1.52 meters tall and weighing under 45 kilograms, it is debatable that habilis hunted.

Columbia University

It is debatable if the strength of obesity mortality association depends on age.

Obesity Research & Clinical Practice

It is debatable whether "Silkwood" had any tangible effect on the nuclear power industry.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Avoid overusing "it is debatable" in close proximity; vary your language to maintain reader engagement.

Common error

Don't use "it is debatable" to shut down constructive dialogue. Ensure you acknowledge and address all perspectives, rather than simply dismissing them.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is debatable" functions as an evaluative expression, used to introduce a statement or idea where there is no single, universally accepted answer. It signals that a topic is open to discussion and differing opinions, and it is commonly used in different contexts as confirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

37%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it is debatable" is a versatile phrase employed to introduce elements of uncertainty or disagreement in various contexts. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its widespread usage across diverse sources, especially in news, media, and scientific publications. The phrase is grammatically sound and serves to objectively present topics open to different interpretations. When using "it is debatable", it's crucial to maintain a balanced perspective and avoid using it to dismiss valid viewpoints. Alternatives like "it is arguable" or "it is questionable" can also be employed to vary the language and keep the readers engaged.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is arguable

Replaces 'debatable' with 'arguable', suggesting a point can be supported with reasons, though not definitively proven.

it is questionable

Substitutes 'debatable' with 'questionable', implying doubt or uncertainty about the truth or validity of something.

the matter is open to debate

Rephrases the idea to emphasize the availability of the subject for discussion and differing opinions.

the point is contentious

Replaces 'debatable' by 'contentious', highlighting that the point causes or is likely to cause an argument; controversial.

it remains uncertain

Focuses on the lack of definitive knowledge or resolution regarding the subject.

it is a matter of opinion

Indicates that the subject is subjective and influenced by personal views rather than objective facts.

there is no consensus

Highlights the lack of general agreement or widespread acceptance.

it is a moot point

Suggests that the point is no longer of practical significance or is purely theoretical.

the issue is unresolved

Emphasizes that the problem or question has not been definitively settled or decided.

it is open to interpretation

Highlights that the subject can be understood or explained in different ways.

FAQs

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

Use "it is debatable" to introduce a point where different opinions or evidence exist. For example, "It is debatable whether this is true".

What are some alternatives to "it is debatable"?

Alternatives include "it is arguable", "it is questionable", or "the matter is open to debate".

When is it appropriate to use "it is debatable"?

Use "it is debatable" when presenting an issue or idea that doesn't have a clear or universally accepted answer, acknowledging that reasonable people may hold differing views.

Is "it is debatable" too informal for academic writing?

No, "it is debatable" is suitable for academic writing, as it objectively introduces uncertainty or disagreement, but ensure the tone and evidence presented remain scholarly and balanced.