seriously debating

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "seriously debating" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a topic or issue that is being considered thoughtfully and with significant attention. Example: "The committee is seriously debating the proposed changes to the policy and will reach a decision by next week."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

Rajendra Pachauri, who leads the United Nations' Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, worries that India is not yet even seriously debating the new threats.

The Economist

The administration had been seriously debating whether to say "I'm sorry" to the Pakistanis' satisfaction — until April 15, when multiple, simultaneous attacks struck Kabul and other Afghan cities. "What changed was the 15th of April," said a senior administration official.

The New York Times

In Greece, where fuel prices have risen 12 times over the past four years, amounting to a total increase of 50%, the leftwing party Syriza is seriously debating a radical energy policy.

The Guardian - Opinion

That in reality there seems not the slightest prospect of obtaining dinosaur DNA from mosquitoes preserved in amber, let alone cloning it, did not prevent scientists from seriously debating the possibility – and that, for countless millions, was more than enough.

The Guardian - Books

In other words, if you're seriously debating it, it's hard to see how you can go wrong with the Retina MacBook Pro.

TechCrunch

In the wake of the election of Abraham Lincoln, seven southern states began seriously debating secession.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

The issue is being seriously debated in Germany.

The Guardian - Opinion

How on earth, for example, could the idea of siding with Iran instead be seriously debated?

The Economist

Pundits seriously debated whether Mr. Clinton's long-windedness might end his career.

The New York Times

If you want to seriously debate the Greek debt deal then look away now.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

No one in Congress can now seriously debate the deadliness of smoking.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "seriously debating", ensure the context reflects a genuine consideration of different viewpoints and potential outcomes, rather than a superficial discussion. For clarity and impact, follow the phrase with a specific subject of the debate.

Common error

Avoid using "seriously debating" when the discussion is lighthearted or lacks real consequences. Reserve it for situations where significant decisions or changes are at stake.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "seriously debating" functions as a verbal phrase indicating an ongoing process of thoughtful discussion and consideration. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct. The word 'seriously' modifies 'debating', emphasizing the importance and depth of the discussion.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

10%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "seriously debating" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe a thoughtful and intense discussion about a particular subject. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability in written English. Its register is primarily neutral/professional, and it frequently appears in news and media contexts. When using the phrase, ensure that the context reflects a genuine consideration of different viewpoints. Related alternatives include "earnestly considering" and "intensely discussing". While the phrase is valid and useful, avoid using it in contexts that are lighthearted or inconsequential.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

earnestly considering

Emphasizes sincerity and depth of thought in the consideration.

intensely discussing

Highlights the high level of engagement and focus during the discussion.

giving serious thought to

Focuses on the act of carefully thinking about something.

pondering deeply

Suggests a reflective and thorough exploration of the topic.

grappling with

Indicates a struggle to understand or resolve a complex issue.

deliberating at length

Implies a prolonged and careful discussion.

thoroughly examining

Stresses a comprehensive and detailed analysis of the subject.

carefully weighing

Highlights the balancing of different aspects before making a decision.

actively considering

Emphasizes the ongoing and engaged nature of the thought process.

closely scrutinizing

Focuses on a critical and detailed inspection of all angles.

FAQs

How to use "seriously debating" in a sentence?

You can use "seriously debating" to describe a situation where individuals or groups are thoughtfully considering different aspects of a subject. For example: "The city council is seriously debating the new zoning laws."

What can I say instead of "seriously debating"?

You can use alternatives like "earnestly considering", "intensely discussing", or "giving serious thought to" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "seriously debating" or "debating seriously"?

"Seriously debating" is generally preferred as it emphasizes the intensity of the debate, whereas "debating seriously" places more emphasis on the act of debating itself. The choice depends on the nuance you wish to convey.

What's the difference between "seriously debating" and "considering"?

"Seriously debating" implies active discussion and consideration of multiple viewpoints, while "considering" simply means thinking about something, without necessarily involving others or engaging in a back-and-forth exchange.