worthwhile debate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "worthwhile debate" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a topic or issue that merits discussion and consideration due to its significance or value. Example: "The recent policy changes have sparked a worthwhile debate among experts in the field."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

This is a worthwhile debate to have.

The New Yorker

It's already instigating worthwhile debate on the right to die.

Independent

To assure worthwhile debate, it's necessary to protect some worthless, even hurtful, opinion.

The New York Times

Justice Stevens asked a single set of questions, about whether disclosures might encourage worthwhile debate.

The New York Times

And by insisting on infusing her designs with such blatant drama, she forces us to join a worthwhile debate.

The Guardian - Sport

There is plenty of worthwhile debate for FA Cup reform, the showpiece final being played after the end of the Premier League season is a great start.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

On Friday, the fans did not cheer for Isner's opponent, the way they did on Thursday, a gesture that ignited indignation across social media, left Isner "disappointed" and created an unnecessary controversy over the cheering etiquette supposedly required of tennis fans, of all the worthwhile debates.

The New York Times - Sports

Today there are plenty of worthwhile debates in Costa Mesa.

Los Angeles Times

For activities that my parents deemed respectable and worthwhile, like debate, they proudly showed up at events and told all their friends about my accomplishments.

The New Yorker

But these contradictions, combined with a fierce sense of patriotism and often a sentimental attachment to "the old country", do provide more political space for a worthwhile immigration debate than is possible in Europe, which imagines itself ethnically pure.

The Guardian - Opinion

This is a worthwhile ethical debate because this scenario is more common than officials are willing to admit.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "worthwhile debate" when you want to emphasize that a discussion is valuable and merits consideration due to its potential benefits or importance.

Common error

While "worthwhile debate" is appropriate in many settings, avoid overusing "worthwhile" in very casual conversations where simpler adjectives like "good" or "interesting" might sound more natural.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "worthwhile debate" functions as an adjective-noun combination. It qualifies the noun "debate" by adding an attribute of value or benefit. As Ludwig AI confirms, the usage is correct.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "worthwhile debate" is a commonly used and grammatically sound phrase used to describe discussions that are valuable and merit consideration. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and wide applicability. Predominantly found in news and media, scientific, and academic contexts, the phrase signals the importance and potential benefit of a particular discussion. When writing, remember to consider the formality of the setting and choose simpler alternatives in casual conversations. Using alternatives like "valuable discussion" or "productive discussion" can provide nuanced meaning depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

valuable discussion

Replaces "debate" with "discussion", emphasizing the conversational aspect.

productive discussion

Substitutes "worthwhile" with "productive", highlighting the positive outcome of the discussion.

fruitful exchange

Uses "fruitful exchange" to suggest a beneficial and rewarding conversation.

important deliberation

Replaces "debate" with "deliberation", indicating a more formal and careful consideration.

meaningful discourse

Substitutes both words to convey a deeper, more significant conversation.

useful discussion

Emphasizes the practical benefit of the debate.

significant argument

Focuses on the importance of the points being argued.

constructive dialogue

Highlights the positive and building nature of the conversation.

worth considering discussion

Emphasizes the need to think about the topic.

interesting discussion

Focuses on the captivating nature of the debate.

FAQs

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

You can use "worthwhile debate" to describe a discussion that is beneficial and worth having, such as "The proposal sparked a "worthwhile debate" about the future of the company."

What's a good alternative to "worthwhile debate"?

Consider using alternatives like "valuable discussion", "productive discussion", or "meaningful discourse" depending on the specific context.

Is "worthwhile debate" formal or informal?

The phrase "worthwhile debate" leans towards a more formal register, suitable for academic, professional, or news-related contexts. Simpler alternatives might be more appropriate in casual conversation.

When is it appropriate to use "worthwhile debate"?

Use "worthwhile debate" when the discussion is important and beneficial. It's often used in academic papers, news articles, or professional settings where the value of the discussion needs to be emphasized.