protracted debate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "protracted debate" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a debate that is lengthy and drawn out, often involving extensive discussion or argumentation. Example: "The protracted debate over the new policy lasted for several months, with various stakeholders voicing their opinions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Each issue has generated protracted debate.

The New York Times

Raeburn once watched a protracted debate between Barker and Alan Lomax, the nation's best-known ethnomusicologist, at a jazz symposium in New Orleans.

The New Yorker

"This is especially pertinent in Ceredigion, where there has been protracted debate as to the future of Bronglais hospital and other cottage hospitals in the county.

BBC

Kennedy has threatened "protracted" debate on the nomination once it reaches the floor, perhaps later this month.

Los Angeles Times

The divisive and protracted debate came to a head Thursday.

The Washington Post

However, also important in this regard was the protracted debate dispute over racism.

The Washington Post

Or will their own party bring them down with a protracted debate on climate change policies?

The Guardian

Instead of a quick decision, he got a protracted debate that continued into the weekend.

The New York Times

Protracted debate and sluggish consensus building are existential demands for India and Europe, not just some annoying character flaw.

Yale University

The Republicans on Friday had drawn up about 100 amendments and were promising a contentious and protracted debate.

The New York Times

Ms. Achtenberg, who was ultimately confirmed as Mr. Clinton's assistant secretary for housing — after a protracted debate — agrees.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "protracted debate" to describe situations where a discussion has been lengthy and characterized by multiple viewpoints, arguments, or significant back-and-forth exchanges. It accurately conveys the idea of a discussion that has lasted longer than expected or desired.

Common error

Avoid using "protracted debate" simply to indicate a long discussion. "Protracted" implies that the length is excessive or has caused difficulty, disagreement, or delay. If it was just a long, but smooth and agreeable discussion, choose another term.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "protracted debate" functions primarily as a noun phrase, acting as a subject or object in a sentence. It describes a specific instance of discussion that is characterized by its extended duration. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Academia

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "protracted debate" is a phrase used to describe a discussion that is lengthy, often contentious, and lasts longer than expected. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used across various contexts, particularly in news and media, as well as academia. It is suitable for neutral to formal settings and conveys a sense of a drawn-out discussion that may have caused difficulty or disagreement. Alternative phrases like "lengthy discussion" or "extended argument" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

protracted deliberations

Deliberations is synonymous to debate but sounds more formal.

long-term debate

This expression is highly similar, simply adds the word term to extend the duration.

lengthy debate

Adjective synonymous to the original query's one.

lengthy discussion

Emphasizes the duration of the discussion rather than the contentious nature of a "debate".

long debate

Adjective synonymous to the original query's one.

extended argument

Highlights the argumentative aspect, potentially more confrontational than a simple "debate".

drawn-out controversy

Focuses on the controversial aspect and the extended time frame.

long-running dispute

Suggests a more formal and potentially legal disagreement than a "debate".

ongoing contention

Emphasizes the continuous nature of the disagreement.

sustained deliberation

Highlights careful consideration and length of the process.

FAQs

How can I use "protracted debate" in a sentence?

You can use "protracted debate" to describe a long and often contentious discussion. For example, "The "protracted debate" over healthcare reform divided the nation".

What are some alternatives to "protracted debate"?

Alternatives include "lengthy discussion", "extended argument", or "long-running dispute", depending on the specific context.

Is "protracted debate" formal or informal?

"Protracted debate" is generally considered suitable for formal and neutral contexts, such as news reports, academic papers, and professional discussions. It may sound overly formal in casual conversation.

What's the difference between "protracted debate" and "long debate"?

"Protracted debate" emphasizes that the debate has been excessively long, often causing difficulty or delay. While "long debate" simply indicates that the debate was of considerable length, "protracted debate" adds the connotation of weariness or frustration with the duration.