this is arguable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "this is arguable" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to indicate that a statement or opinion can be debated or challenged. Example: "While some believe that technology improves education, this is arguable, as there are many who feel it creates distractions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

This is arguable, but probably correct.

The Economist

One could say that the Americans did not ask for this role, but this is arguable.

The Economist

Inevitably much of this is arguable: we have not been down this road before so all bets are off.

The Guardian

From the complete list of releases we try to only use albums, not compilations, EPs or singles, as we believe that albums sufficiently represent an artist's historical profile (this is arguable).

BBC

So when you need special services (like Neurosurgery if you have a boda or car accident), it is assumed you would go to Mulago since this is the only place with adequate staff numbers (this is arguable), certain drugs, and sufficient quantities of consumables reserved for National Referral Hospitals.

Duke University

But all this is arguable and the past is what it is.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

If that net wasn't there, the Lady Brett" — a yacht docked at the end of the pier — "would be in trouble!" This was arguable.

The New Yorker

If that net wasn't there, the Lady Brett"—a yacht docked at the end of the pier—"would be in trouble!" This was arguable.

The New Yorker

If their arrival has depressed wages (and that is arguable) then this policy does nothing to fix that.

The Guardian

But that is arguable.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The precise meaning of this poll is arguable, but it's clear that young Americans, who make less money than their parents did at their age and have higher rates of poverty and unemployment, are moving left.

The Guardian - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "this is arguable", follow it with a clear explanation of why the statement can be challenged. Provide evidence or reasoning to support your position.

Common error

Avoid simply stating "this is arguable" without explaining why. A lazy statement can weaken your argument rather than strengthen it. Always provide reasoning or evidence to support your claim that something is debatable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this is arguable" functions as a qualifier, softening a preceding statement by indicating that it is not a definitive truth but rather a point open to discussion or dispute. As noted by Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

35%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "this is arguable" is a grammatically sound and versatile expression used to signal that a statement is open to debate. Ludwig confirms its correctness and usability. While not exceedingly common, its presence across news, science, and academic sources highlights its broad applicability. To use it effectively, always provide clear reasoning or evidence to justify the claim that something is debatable. Consider related phrases such as "this is debatable" or "this is questionable" to add nuance to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

this is debatable

Changes the wording to suggest the point is open to discussion.

this is contestable

Emphasizes the idea that the statement can be challenged or disputed.

this is disputable

Highlights the fact that the validity of the statement is in question.

this is questionable

Suggests that there are reasons to doubt or question the statement.

this is contentious

Implies that the statement is likely to cause disagreement or controversy.

this is open to debate

States explicitly that the statement is a matter of discussion and differing opinions.

this is not certain

Indicates uncertainty or lack of definitive proof regarding the statement.

this is up for discussion

Similar to "this is open to debate", but perhaps slightly less formal.

this is a matter of opinion

Highlights the subjective nature of the statement, suggesting that different people may have different views.

the validity of this is arguable

Emphasizes that the statement is questionable.

FAQs

How can I use "this is arguable" in a sentence?

You can use "this is arguable" to express that a point is not definitively true and is open to discussion. For example, "While some believe that remote work increases productivity, "this is arguable", as it depends on the individual and the nature of the job".

What phrases are similar in meaning to "this is arguable"?

Alternatives to "this is arguable" include "this is debatable", "this is disputable", and "this is questionable". The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "this is arguable" in formal writing?

Yes, "this is arguable" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when presenting a balanced argument. It shows that you are aware of different perspectives and are willing to consider alternative viewpoints.

What's the difference between "this is arguable" and "this is a fact"?

"This is arguable" indicates a statement is open to debate, while "this is a fact" asserts something is definitively true and supported by evidence. They are opposites in terms of certainty and verifiability.