they are debating

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "they are debating" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing a situation where individuals or groups are discussing or arguing about a particular topic or issue. Example: "During the meeting, they are debating the merits of the new policy proposal."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Opinion

Politics

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

46 human-written examples

They are debating the nature of those circumstances.

The New York Times

Maybe they are debating the issues among themselves.

The Guardian - Opinion

They are debating whether they should work less.

The New Yorker

They are debating an intelligence bill that would remove limits on domestic spying.

The New Yorker

They are debating a lengthy motion (F19) called Strengthening the UK Economy.

The Guardian

They are debating all of the obvious issues: Iverson's electric talents versus his checkered reputation.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

10 human-written examples

But the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs sent a strong signal that it could resist the targets when they are debated.

The Guardian

When new laws are proposed, they are debated and subjected to votes in both the Lower House (Commons) and Upper House Senatee).

Encyclopedia Britannica

But they're debating the wrong question.

The New Yorker

Well, yes, they're debating 10 30 a.m.

The New York Times

They were debating what the United States should do.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "they are debating", ensure the context clearly indicates the subject of the debate. This adds clarity and prevents ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid embedding "they are debating" within overly complex sentence structures. Instead, break down lengthy sentences to maintain readability and impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "they are debating" functions as a present continuous verb phrase, indicating an ongoing action of discussion or argument. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through numerous examples in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Opinion

10%

Politics

8%

Less common in

Sports

6%

Business

5%

Encyclopedias

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "they are debating" is a grammatically correct and very common verb phrase used to describe an ongoing discussion or argument. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it appears frequently in news, opinion pieces, and political contexts. While the phrase is generally neutral in register, ensuring clarity in sentence structure enhances its impact. Alternatives like "they are discussing" or "they are arguing" can offer different nuances, but "they are debating" remains a versatile and widely used expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

they are discussing

This is a more neutral alternative, focusing on the exchange of ideas.

they are deliberating

This suggests a formal and careful discussion.

they are arguing

This alternative emphasizes the disagreement aspect more strongly.

they are contesting

This emphasizes the aspect of challenging or disputing something.

they are disputing

Similar to 'contesting', but can also imply a formal disagreement.

they are considering

This implies a more thoughtful and less confrontational approach.

they are negotiating

This suggests a discussion aimed at reaching an agreement.

they are questioning

This implies that they are expressing doubts or uncertainties.

they are wrangling over

This suggests a contentious and often prolonged debate.

they are পাল্টাপাল্টি

They are exchanging arguments

FAQs

How can I use "they are debating" in a sentence?

Use "they are debating" to indicate that a group is actively discussing or arguing about a specific topic. For example, "They are debating the new environmental policy."

What are some alternatives to "they are debating"?

Alternatives include "they are discussing", "they are considering", or "they are arguing" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What is the difference between "they are debating" and "they are discussing"?

"They are debating" often implies a more formal or contentious discussion, while "they are discussing" is a more neutral term for exchanging ideas.

Is it correct to use "they are debating about"?

While not strictly incorrect, it's more concise and grammatically preferable to use "they are debating" followed directly by the subject of the debate, omitting the word "about".