start a debate

USAGE SUMMARY

"start a debate" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it in many contexts to suggest that a discussion should begin on a certain topic. For example, "Let's start a debate on whether the use of technology is beneficial or detrimental to students' learning."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"It was meant to start a debate".

The New York Times - Arts

But it is filtering through and will start a debate.

The Guardian

3.30pm: MPs start a debate on the Leveson report.

The Guardian

For once, Mr. President, let's start a debate with the truth.

The New York Times

Catling, 57, cheerily tries to start a debate but soon wishes Mrs Adkin a good day.

Independent

We shouldn't have to rely on leaks to start a debate about what's in them".

Independent

It would have been so interesting to bring up the controversy and start a debate".

The New York Times - Books

WHERE better to start a debate about the future of the Church of England than Australia?

The Economist

Stephen Emmott, author of overpopulation bestseller Ten Billion, says he wants to start a debate too.

The Guardian - Opinion

But what I do want to do is start a debate.

The Guardian - Film

We need to start a debate, a debate which asks a number of obvious questions.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "start a debate", clearly define the subject matter to ensure that participants remain focused and the debate stays productive.

Common error

While "start a debate" is appropriate for formal discussions or news-related content, avoid using it excessively in casual conversations. Simpler alternatives like "discuss" or "talk about" may be more suitable for everyday scenarios.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "start a debate" functions as a verb phrase that initiates an action. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is commonly used to introduce a call to action where different viewpoints on a particular subject are encouraged. This phrase prompts discussion and reasoned arguments.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Formal & Business

1%

Science

1%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "start a debate" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to encourage discussion and differing viewpoints. Ludwig AI confirms its usability across various contexts, predominantly in News & Media. The phrase serves to instigate reasoned arguments and explore different perspectives. While versatile, it's best suited for neutral to professional settings, avoiding overuse in casual conversations. Related phrases include "initiate a discussion", "spark a discussion", and "launch a debate", each carrying subtle nuances. By understanding its function, purpose, and appropriate register, writers can effectively use "start a debate" to foster engaging and productive discussions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

initiate a discussion

Replaces "debate" with "discussion", focusing on a broader range of conversational exchanges.

spark a discussion

Uses "spark" instead of "start", implying a more sudden or energetic beginning to the discussion.

trigger a debate

Suggests a more forceful initiation, where the debate is a direct consequence of something.

launch a debate

Emphasizes a formal or planned commencement of the debate.

ignite a debate

Similar to 'spark', but with a stronger connotation of passion and intensity.

provoke a debate

Highlights the potential for controversy or strong reactions as a result of initiating the debate.

foster a debate

Focuses on nurturing and encouraging a debate that may already be nascent.

introduce a debate

Simple and direct, focusing on the act of presenting a topic for debate.

open a debate

Suggests making a debate accessible or beginning a formal discussion.

raise a debate

Implies bringing up a topic that may have been previously unacknowledged.

FAQs

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

You can use "start a debate" to suggest beginning a formal discussion, for example: "The politician's speech was intended to "start a debate" about healthcare reform".

What are some alternatives to "start a debate"?

Alternatives include "initiate a discussion", "spark a discussion", or "launch a debate" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to "start a debate" or "begin a debate"?

"Start a debate" and "begin a debate" are largely interchangeable. However, "start a debate" is more commonly used and might sound more natural in many contexts.

When is it appropriate to use "start a debate" in writing?

It is appropriate to use "start a debate" in contexts where you want to encourage a discussion with differing viewpoints, such as in academic papers, news articles, or formal discussions. It is about more than just conversation, and has aspects of sides and disagreement.