significant debate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'significant debate' is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a debate of some importance or consequence. For example, "The media coverage of the 2020 election has sparked a significant debate about the future of the country."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

And we will have significant debate.

The New York Times

We have had significant debate, and we will have significant debate.

The New York Times

No-one wants a significant debate about big issues.

The Guardian

Newhall Ranch, to be built over 20 years, has generated significant debate.

The New York Times

"There is still significant debate on this issue," the Western Australian MP said.

The Guardian

As a result, on many vital issues, he never heard significant debate.

The New York Times - Magazine

In addition, there was significant debate regarding the buying and selling of land.

Britannica

In the years after the Rosenbergs' executions, there was significant debate about their guilt.

Britannica

The efficacy and safety of treating elderly patients remain a source of significant debate.

The Kaohsiung Journal of Medical Sciences

The appropriate management of these patients continues to be a matter of significant debate.

Seminars in Radiation Oncology

How quickly that can happen, however, is a subject of more significant debate.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "significant debate", ensure the context clearly establishes what the debate is about. For example, "There is a "significant debate" regarding the effectiveness of the new policy."

Common error

Avoid using "significant debate" to describe minor disagreements or trivial matters. Ensure the issue warrants a level of importance appropriate for the phrase.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "significant debate" functions as a noun phrase, where "significant" modifies the noun "debate". It describes the character or quality of the debate, highlighting its importance or impact. Ludwig AI confirms its usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

7%

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "significant debate" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to denote an important disagreement or discussion. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is suitable for various contexts, ranging from news reporting to academic discourse. It is crucial to use this phrase when the debate genuinely holds importance, avoiding its application to trivial matters. Related phrases like "major controversy" or "substantial disagreement" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Its widespread presence in sources like The New York Times and The Guardian confirms its acceptability in formal and professional writing. Remember to always contextualize the debate in question after using the expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

major controversy

Replaces "debate" with "controversy", implying a more contentious disagreement.

substantial disagreement

Substitutes both words to emphasize the size and importance of the disagreement.

intense discussion

Replaces "debate" with "discussion", suggesting a less formal but still serious exchange.

heated argument

Conveys a more emotional and potentially volatile disagreement than "significant debate".

notable dispute

Uses "dispute" to indicate a formal disagreement or contention.

considerable contention

Emphasizes the disagreement and opposition involved.

serious deliberation

Focuses on the thoughtful consideration and discussion of a topic.

extensive examination

Shifts the focus to a thorough investigation and analysis, rather than a debate.

vigorous exchange

Highlights the energy and intensity of the discussion.

profound questioning

Emphasizes the depth and importance of the issues being questioned.

FAQs

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

You can use "significant debate" to describe a disagreement that is noteworthy or important, such as "There is a "significant debate" surrounding the use of artificial intelligence in healthcare."

What are some alternatives to "significant debate"?

Alternatives include "major controversy", "substantial disagreement", or "intense discussion".

Is it appropriate to use "significant debate" in formal writing?

Yes, "significant debate" is suitable for formal writing, especially when discussing academic, scientific, or political issues. It conveys a sense of importance and relevance.

What's the difference between "significant debate" and "minor disagreement"?

"Significant debate" implies a larger scale and importance of the disagreement compared to a "minor disagreement", which suggests a smaller and less impactful dispute.