there is debate about

USAGE SUMMARY

"there is debate about" is correct and can be used in written English.
For example, "There is debate about whether or not the new policy will have a positive impact on the economy."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

There is debate about shortcomings and appropriate methodologies.

International Journal of Medical Informatics

In the information age, however, there is debate about this.

The New York Times

I know there is debate about this issue.

The Guardian

There is truth to that claim — though there is debate about the terminology.

The New York Times

There is debate about whether Rodney said "pow" or the girl did.

The Washington Post

Currently, there is debate about whether these samples should be destroyed or kept for scientific purposes.

The New York Times

It also has provisions on improving working conditions, although there is debate about the likely results.

The New York Times

Now there is debate about whether all this democracy is such a good thing.

The New York Times

Though there is debate about this, fabulous appears to have a supply-side effect.

The New York Times

But even here there is debate about what a hippy actually is.

The Guardian - Music

And even among proponents of compassionate conservatism there is debate about how far to go.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "there is debate about", follow it with a clear indication of the specific aspects or issues that are being debated. This provides context and focus for the discussion.

Common error

Avoid using "there is debate about" as a placeholder without providing specifics about the nature of the debate. Failing to elaborate can leave the reader uninformed and the statement vague.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "there is debate about" functions as an introductory expression. It signals the existence of differing opinions or controversies surrounding a specific topic. Ludwig AI confirms this is correct and provides numerous examples showcasing this function.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

27%

News & Media

52%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "there is debate about" is a versatile phrase used to introduce topics with conflicting viewpoints. As validated by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, most frequently appearing in news and media and scientific publications. The phrase serves to signal the existence of differing opinions and encourage further exploration of the issue at hand. While alternatives exist to add nuance, "there is debate about" remains a clear and neutral way to introduce a contentious subject. Remember to provide specifics regarding the nature of the debate to maximize clarity and informativeness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

there is no consensus on

Directly states the absence of agreement on the topic.

there is disagreement regarding

Replaces "debate" with "disagreement", directly stating a lack of consensus.

there is controversy surrounding

Replaces "debate" with "controversy", highlighting a contentious and often public disagreement.

it is a matter of contention

Highlights the topic as a point of argument or dispute.

there are conflicting opinions on

Focuses on the existence of differing viewpoints rather than the debate itself.

the issue is contested

Emphasizes that the issue is actively challenged and disputed.

the subject is open to question

Emphasizes that the topic is not settled and remains uncertain.

views are divided on

Highlights the separation of opinions on a particular matter.

opinions diverge on

Similar to 'views are divided on', but emphasizes the separation and deviation of viewpoints.

the matter is under discussion

Indicates that the topic is being actively considered and debated.

FAQs

How can I use "there is debate about" in a sentence?

You can use "there is debate about" to introduce a topic where opinions differ. For example, "There is debate about the effectiveness of the new policy".

What are some alternatives to "there is debate about"?

Alternatives include phrases like "there is controversy surrounding", "there are conflicting opinions on", or "there is disagreement regarding" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to say "there is a debate about" or "there is debate about"?

While both are grammatically correct, "there is debate about" is more concise and commonly used. The inclusion of "a" doesn't significantly alter the meaning.

What is the difference between "there is debate about" and "there is discussion about"?

"There is debate about" implies opposing viewpoints and arguments, while "there is discussion about" simply indicates that a topic is being talked about, without necessarily implying disagreement.