open the debate

USAGE SUMMARY

"open the debate" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It usually means to begin a discussion or argument about a particular topic. You can use it when you want to invite others to share their opinions or when you want to start a conversation about a controversial issue. Example: "The moderator of the political forum opened the debate by asking the candidates to share their views on the current state of the economy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

But nobody dares open the debate.

The Economist

If you want to open the debate, then do so properly.

The Guardian - Opinion

At least this mix of prejudice, clumsy talk and drollery forces open the debate.

The Guardian - Music

Over the past few months, a curious pattern has emerged: the more open the debate, the more radical the outcome.

The New York Times

Her decision to open the debate by making an appeal to the people of the other UK countries was significant.

The Guardian

Jeremy Corbyn does not believe this test has been met and will open the debate for Labour by saying so.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

The alleged ban will re-open the debate about whether suspicions against Chinese technology companies, whose products are often cheaper than those of rivals, are justified or jingoistic.

Independent

But some in the navy might also want to re-open the debate since the jump-jet plan is, in fact, a compromise.

The Economist

The appointment will undoubtedly re-open the debate between the FA and Premier League clubs who will certainly resist giving access to their players – as previous England regimes have discovered.

Independent

Last month, Luiz Flávio Cappio, a Catholic bishop from Bahia, began a hunger strike in protest, giving up only when the government agreed to re-open the debate 11 days later.

The Economist

While the long-term tenancy of West Ham United is secure, there is growing pressure to re-open the debate about possible ground-sharing and to make the venue more economically viable.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "open the debate", consider providing context or background information to ensure all participants have a foundation for informed discussion.

Common error

Don't use "open the debate" when a decision has already been made or when discussion is no longer relevant. The phrase implies an ongoing opportunity for input and influence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "open the debate" functions as a verbal phrase, acting as an initiator of discussion or argument. It sets the stage for diverse viewpoints to be presented. Ludwig shows the phrase in use across various news and media outlets, confirming its role in introducing topics for discussion.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "open the debate" is a commonly used phrase to initiate discussion on a particular topic, often one that is controversial or has multiple viewpoints. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is correct and usable in written English. It is particularly prevalent in news and media contexts. When employing this phrase, ensure that the context is appropriate, inviting genuine discussion rather than foreclosing on a settled decision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

initiate the discussion

Focuses on beginning a discussion, emphasizing the start of the exchange.

start the discussion

Highlights the commencement of a discussion, similar to initiating it.

begin the deliberation

Emphasizes the start of a careful and thorough consideration.

raise the issue

Highlights bringing a topic to attention, implying the start of a discussion.

table the question

Refers to formally introducing a question for debate.

put forward the argument

Suggests presenting an argument to be discussed and debated.

kick off the conversation

An informal way to express starting a conversation or discussion.

spark the controversy

Implies initiating a heated or contentious debate.

unlock dialogue

Focuses on enabling or facilitating a conversation.

foster discussion

Suggests promoting or encouraging a discussion.

FAQs

How can I use "open the debate" in a sentence?

You can use "open the debate" to introduce a controversial topic or an issue with multiple perspectives, such as: "The senator's speech aimed to "open the debate" on healthcare reform".

What's a more formal way to say "open the debate"?

In more formal settings, you could use phrases like "initiate the discussion" or "commence the deliberation", which convey a similar meaning but with a higher degree of formality. See also "initiate the discussion".

When is it inappropriate to use the phrase "open the debate"?

It's inappropriate to use "open the debate" when a decision has already been made and there's no room for further discussion or when the topic is no longer relevant. The phrase implies an active opportunity for input and influence.

What phrases are similar to "open the debate" but emphasize different aspects of starting a discussion?

Phrases like "raise the issue" emphasize bringing a topic to attention, while "kick off the conversation" is a more informal way to express starting a discussion. The phrase "raise the issue" will emphasize bringing a topic to attention.