subject for debate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "subject for debate" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a topic or issue that is open for discussion or argument. Example: "The proposed changes to the policy are a subject for debate among the committee members."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

53 human-written examples

A good subject for debate.

The New York Times

Why remains a subject for debate.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

So it shouldn't even be a subject for debate.

The New Yorker

Among experts, this isn't really a subject for debate.

The New York Times

A good subject for debate, one might think.

The New York Times

A 5% cut was now "precisely the subject for debate".

The Guardian - Business

That is a proper subject for debate elsewhere.

The Guardian

"I would like to propose the next subject for debate in The Ethicist," one critic wrote.

The New York Times - Magazine

Whether these rules protected investors or improved overall market efficiency is a subject for debate.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

Petit remained a subject for debate throughout more than a half-century, in which he choreographed some 150 ballets.

The New York Times - Arts

The potential causes of thrombogenic complications after PCC administration remain a subject for debate.

Critical Care

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "subject for debate" when introducing a topic where multiple viewpoints exist and a formal discussion or argument is expected.

Common error

Avoid using "subject for debate" in casual conversations; opt for more relaxed alternatives like "something to talk about" or "an interesting point".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "subject for debate" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often acting as a predicate nominative or object complement. It identifies a topic or issue that is open to discussion, argument, or differing opinions. Ludwig indicates that it is suitable for formal and academic contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

22%

Academia

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "subject for debate" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to introduce topics open to discussion. As Ludwig AI shows, it's common in News & Media, Science, and Academia. It's appropriate for formal contexts, signaling varying perspectives. Alternatives include "matter for discussion" or "point of contention", but "subject for debate" indicates open disagreement. Use it when presenting issues with multiple valid viewpoints.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

debatable issue

This alternative directly states that the issue can be debated.

matter for discussion

This alternative emphasizes the act of discussing something, shifting focus from the debate itself.

topic for consideration

This phrase highlights the need for careful thought and evaluation, implying a more deliberate approach than a debate.

point of contention

This alternative underscores the disagreement or conflict associated with the topic.

issue in question

This phrase presents the topic as a specific problem or matter that needs to be resolved.

matter at issue

Similar to 'issue in question', but slightly more formal, emphasizing the importance of the matter.

open question

This phrase highlights the lack of a definitive answer or resolution, suggesting further exploration is needed.

contested topic

This alternative directly indicates that the topic is disputed or challenged.

disputable subject

This phrase emphasizes the potential for disagreement and argument surrounding the topic.

arguable point

This highlights the possibility of presenting different arguments or perspectives on the subject.

FAQs

How can I use "subject for debate" in a sentence?

You can use "subject for debate" to introduce a topic that is open to discussion or disagreement. For example: "The ethical implications of AI are a "subject for debate" among experts."

What's the difference between "subject for debate" and "topic for discussion"?

"Subject for debate" implies a more formal and potentially contentious discussion, whereas "topic for discussion" suggests a more general and open-ended conversation.

What can I say instead of "subject for debate"?

You can use alternatives like "matter for discussion", "point of contention", or "open question" depending on the context.

Is "subject for debate" always appropriate in formal writing?

Yes, "subject for debate" is generally appropriate in formal writing when you wish to indicate that a particular topic has different points of view. In some contexts, using a synonym like "debatable issue" might enhance clarity or flow.