we can debate

USAGE SUMMARY

"we can debate" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used in a sentence to introduce the idea of discussing or arguing about a topic. Example: "We can debate the merits of the new policy at our next meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

And some, we can debate [INAUDIBLE].

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

RYAN: We -- we can debate a timeline.

The New York Times

How you engage, we can debate.

The New Yorker

Tomorrow we can debate Russian policy.

The New York Times

We can debate those after you win".

The New York Times

Surely we can debate without oversimplifying?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"Then we can debate it," Mr. Sessions said.

The New York Times

"We can debate the scale and pace of deficit reduction.

The New York Times

"I suppose we can debate its origin," Miller writes.

The New York Times

We can debate the likely impact of the latter policies.

The New Yorker

We can debate the Second Amendment together another time.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Employ the phrase "we can debate" when you want to acknowledge that an issue is not settled and that further discussion is valuable. This encourages open dialogue and collaborative problem-solving.

Common error

Avoid using "we can debate" sarcastically or dismissively. This can discourage meaningful discussion and create a hostile environment. Instead, use it genuinely to invite diverse viewpoints.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we can debate" serves as an introductory phrase, suggesting the possibility or invitation to discuss a topic or issue. According to Ludwig, it's grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Academia

22%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

9%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "we can debate" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression that serves as an invitation to discuss or argue about a particular topic. Ludwig AI affirms its validity and common usage. Predominantly found in news and media, it also appears in academic and formal business contexts. While the phrase is generally neutral, its appropriateness varies depending on the context, with more formal alternatives available. As detailed throughout this guide, it's essential to use "we can debate" genuinely to encourage open dialogue and thoughtful consideration of diverse viewpoints.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we could discuss

Replaces "debate" with "discuss", suggesting a more general conversation rather than a formal argument.

we might argue

Substitutes "debate" with "argue", implying a potentially stronger disagreement.

we can consider

Suggests the action is possible, but not necessarily probable.

we may consider

Replaces the idea of a debate with a more neutral consideration of a topic.

we might deliberate

Replaces "debate" with "deliberate", implying a more formal and careful consideration.

we should examine

Suggests a more thorough investigation or analysis, rather than a direct debate.

it's open to discussion

Shifts the focus to the topic being available for discussion rather than the act of debating.

it is debatable

Highlights the controversial nature of the topic itself, implying that a debate is warranted.

let's talk it over

Proposes an informal discussion to explore different perspectives.

we can hash out

Suggests a detailed and potentially challenging discussion to reach a resolution.

FAQs

How can I use "we can debate" in a sentence?

You can use "we can debate" to introduce a topic that is open to discussion and has multiple viewpoints. For example, "We can debate the merits of this proposal at our next meeting."

What are some alternatives to "we can debate"?

Alternatives include "we could discuss", "we might argue", or "we may consider" depending on the context and desired level of formality.

Is it appropriate to use "we can debate" in formal writing?

Yes, "we can debate" is suitable for formal writing as it introduces a topic for discussion in a neutral manner. However, consider alternatives like "we should examine" or "we might deliberate" for even greater formality.

What is the difference between "we can debate" and "it is debatable"?

"We can debate" suggests an active discussion that could happen, while "it is debatable" indicates that a topic is inherently controversial or questionable.