worthy of debate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "worthy of debate" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a topic or issue that has enough significance or complexity to warrant discussion or differing opinions. Example: "The proposed policy changes are certainly worthy of debate among the stakeholders involved."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

These questions are worthy of debate.

The New Yorker

It's a vexing legal question worthy of debate.

The New York Times

You treat their arguments as worthy of debate.

The Guardian - Opinion

Now, that's an honest argument worthy of debate.

The New York Times

They are arguments worthy of debate after this year's tournament.

The Guardian - Sport

But their role in society is worthy of debate.

The Guardian

Suddenly, issues like rape, incest and sexual harassment have been worthy of debate.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

There will be an argument there, for sure, but at least Miller is worthy of the debate.

The New York Times - Sports

Those are responsible proposals, worthy of extended debate.

The New York Times

"There's nothing I've said which is worthy of a debate on that sort of thing".

The Guardian

Just how much these effects account for mental ill-health or, indeed, how mental ill-health is defined and measured, are subjects worthy of informed debate.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "worthy of debate", ensure that the context provides a clear understanding of the issue at hand. This allows for a more focused and productive discussion.

Common error

While "worthy of debate" is appropriate for formal discussions and written arguments, it can sound overly formal or stilted in casual conversation. Opt for simpler alternatives like "worth talking about" or "up for discussion" in less formal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "worthy of debate" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun (topic, issue, question, etc.). It indicates that the noun possesses qualities that make it suitable or deserving of discussion and argumentation. As seen in Ludwig, the phrase signals the presence of conflicting viewpoints or complexities.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "worthy of debate" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase to describe topics that merit discussion due to their complexity or controversial nature. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. It is most commonly found in news and media, scientific, and academic contexts, indicating a neutral to formal register. While versatile, it's best to consider simpler alternatives in informal settings. As shown through Ludwig's examples, authoritative sources like The New York Times and The Guardian frequently employ this phrase, solidifying its place in formal discourse. Therefore, use "worthy of debate" to appropriately signal a topic's deservingness of reasoned discussion.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

deserving of discussion

This alternative directly replaces "debate" with "discussion", maintaining a similar level of formality.

merits consideration

Shifts the focus to the act of considering something, implying a need for thoughtful evaluation.

open to discussion

Indicates that a topic is available for discussion, often implying a willingness to hear different viewpoints.

fit for deliberation

Emphasizes the careful and thorough consideration of a topic, often in a formal setting.

ripe for discussion

Suggests that a topic is timely and appropriate for discussion, often because it is relevant or pressing.

up for debate

A more informal way of saying that a topic is open for discussion, often implying differing opinions.

subject to debate

Highlights that the topic is under discussion and may have different perspectives.

a matter for debate

Presents the topic as something that should be debated, implying its importance or complexity.

arguable

Implies that there are valid arguments on both sides of a topic, making it suitable for debate.

contestable

Suggests that a statement or idea is not necessarily true and can be challenged or debated.

FAQs

How can I use "worthy of debate" in a sentence?

You can use "worthy of debate" to describe a topic or issue that deserves discussion or consideration, such as, "The proposed changes to the policy are "worthy of debate" among the stakeholders".

What are some alternatives to "worthy of debate"?

Alternatives include "deserving of discussion", "open to discussion", or "merits consideration", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "worthy of debate"?

Use "worthy of debate" in formal or academic contexts when you want to emphasize that a topic has enough complexity or controversy to warrant thoughtful discussion and differing opinions.

Is there a difference between "worthy of debate" and "subject to debate"?

"Worthy of debate" implies that a topic deserves discussion, while "subject to debate" simply indicates that a topic is currently being discussed or argued. The former suggests inherent merit, while the latter is more neutral.