there are debates

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "there are debates" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that discussions or arguments exist regarding a particular topic or issue. Example: "In the field of climate change, there are debates about the best strategies for reducing carbon emissions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Unlike the therapeutic environment with analysis, with Buddhist teachers and students there are debates about what is appropriate and what isn't," says James Shaheen, editor of Tricycle.

The New York Times

"In all parties there are debates and issues but the idea that this has been some sort of divisive issue is a fantasy," he told Sky News.

The Guardian

There are debates, there is opposition.

The Economist

"There are debates," he said.

The New York Times

"You get information in, and there are debates.

The New York Times

There are debates in Texas, Michigan, and South Carolina.

The New Yorker

"There are debates around string theory and the number of dimensions in the universe.

Independent

But there are debates about the long-term efficacy of these barriers.

The New Yorker

There are debates about whether this is the appropriate method for teaching music.

Harvard University

There are debates among scholars as to what her disability was.

The Washington Post

"There are debates and speeches outside Aleppo, and Assad and Russians are killing us inside," said activist Abdulkafi Alhamdo.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "there are debates", clearly identify the subject or topic around which the debates are occurring to provide context for your readers.

Common error

Avoid using "there are debates" without specifying what the debates are about. Ensure that the topic under debate is clear to the audience to prevent confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "there are debates" functions as an existential clause introducing the existence of disagreements or discussions on a particular topic. Ludwig examples confirm this usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "there are debates" is a common and grammatically correct way to introduce the existence of discussions or disagreements on a particular subject. Ludwig AI confirms its frequent use across various contexts, particularly in news, media, science, and academic writing. While suitable for general use, specifying the topic of debate enhances clarity. Alternatives such as "discussions are ongoing" or "arguments exist" can be used to vary the phrasing. This phrase serves to acknowledge multiple discussions or differing opinions, introducing topics needing further exploration.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

discussions are ongoing

Focuses on the process of discussing rather than the clash of opinions.

arguments exist

Highlights the presence of opposing viewpoints.

controversies surround

Emphasizes the contentious nature of the topic.

points of contention remain

Underscores the unresolved disagreements.

differing views are present

Directly states the existence of different perspectives.

various opinions diverge

Highlights the divergence in opinions.

disagreements persist

Indicates that disagreements are continuing.

conflicting perspectives exist

Highlights the conflict between different perspectives.

issues are under discussion

Focuses on the active discussion of issues.

varying standpoints are held

Emphasizes the variety of different standpoints.

FAQs

How can I use "there are debates" in a sentence?

Use "there are debates" to introduce a topic where different viewpoints or arguments exist. For example, "There are debates about the long-term effects of social media on teenagers."

What's a more formal alternative to "there are debates"?

In more formal contexts, consider using phrases like "discussions are ongoing" or "points of contention remain" to convey a similar meaning with a more elevated tone.

What's the difference between "there are debates" and "there is a debate"?

"There are debates" implies multiple discussions or disagreements, while "there is a debate" suggests a single, specific discussion or argument. Choose the phrase that accurately reflects the scope of the discussion.

Is "there are debates on" or "there are debates about" more appropriate?

While both can be used, "there are debates about" is generally more common and natural-sounding in contemporary English. "There are debates on" is still grammatically correct, but may sound slightly more formal or archaic.