There is ongoing debate about
Argumentation and critical discussion expression
Use this phrase to sound professional and neutral when discussing topics that have no clear consensus.
15秒了解
- Used to describe a topic where people still disagree.
- Perfect for introducing complex or controversial subjects neutrally.
- Signals that no final conclusion has been reached yet.
意思
This phrase describes a situation where people still disagree or haven't reached a final decision. It suggests that a topic is complicated and experts or friends are still fighting over the right answer.
关键例句
3 / 6Discussing a movie with friends
There is ongoing debate about whether the sequel was actually better than the original.
There is ongoing debate about whether the sequel was actually better than the original.
In a formal business meeting
There is ongoing debate about the budget allocation for the next quarter.
There is ongoing debate about the budget allocation for the next quarter.
Texting about a dinner plan
There is ongoing debate about whether we want tacos or sushi tonight.
There is ongoing debate about whether we want tacos or sushi tonight.
文化背景
This expression stems from the Western academic and democratic tradition where open disagreement is seen as a path to truth. It became a staple of 20th-century journalism to maintain 'objectivity' when reporting on controversial social issues. Today, it is frequently used in tech and science circles to describe theories that haven't been proven yet.
Sound like an Expert
Use this phrase when you want to avoid taking a side. It makes you look like you've done your research on all perspectives.
Don't Overuse It
If you use this for every tiny disagreement, you might sound a bit too stiff or robotic in casual conversation.
15秒了解
- Used to describe a topic where people still disagree.
- Perfect for introducing complex or controversial subjects neutrally.
- Signals that no final conclusion has been reached yet.
What It Means
There is ongoing debate about is a sophisticated way to say 'people are still arguing.' It implies the conversation isn't over yet. Think of it like a never-ending group chat where nobody can agree on the best pizza topping. It suggests the topic is complex and has many valid sides. You aren't just saying people are mad; you are saying the logic is still being tested. It’s the intellectual version of a shrug and a 'we'll see.'
How To Use It
You use this to introduce a topic that doesn't have a simple 'yes' or 'no' answer. It usually sits at the start of a sentence to set the stage. Follow it with a noun or a 'whether' clause. For example, There is ongoing debate about the new office policy. It makes you sound like a neutral observer. It’s great for sounding smart without taking a side immediately. Plus, it buys you time to think while you speak!
When To Use It
Use this in professional meetings when you want to sound objective. It’s perfect for academic writing or news reports. Use it with friends when discussing something subjective, like the best Marvel movie. It works well when you want to avoid being blamed for a controversial opinion. It’s the ultimate 'don't shoot the messenger' phrase. Use it when you want to highlight that a situation is still 'in progress.'
When NOT To Use It
Don't use this for things that are factual and settled. For example, don't say There is ongoing debate about whether the sun is hot. That just makes you look confused. Avoid it in very high-energy, emotional arguments where you need to be direct. If your partner asks why you forgot their birthday, don't say There is ongoing debate about whose turn it was to check the calendar. You will definitely lose that debate. Keep it away from simple, everyday chores.
Cultural Background
In English-speaking cultures, especially in the UK and US, 'debate' is highly valued in democracy and science. People love the idea that everything should be questioned. This phrase reflects a cultural comfort with 'agreeing to disagree.' It’s a polite way to acknowledge conflict without being aggressive. It shows you are aware of different perspectives, which is a sign of high emotional intelligence in Western professional settings. It’s the verbal equivalent of a polite handshake during a standoff.
Common Variations
You might hear The jury is still out on for a more idiomatic feel. There is much discussion surrounding is another formal cousin. If you want to be more casual, you could say People are still back and forth on. For a more intense version, try A heated debate continues regarding. Each one changes the 'temperature' of the argument. But ongoing debate remains the gold standard for being clear and professional.
使用说明
This is a C2-level phrase because it requires an understanding of nuance and register. It is most at home in formal writing or professional speech, but it serves as a great 'ironic' tool in casual settings.
Sound like an Expert
Use this phrase when you want to avoid taking a side. It makes you look like you've done your research on all perspectives.
Don't Overuse It
If you use this for every tiny disagreement, you might sound a bit too stiff or robotic in casual conversation.
The 'Polite' No
In British English, this is often a very polite way of saying 'We really don't agree and probably never will.'
例句
6There is ongoing debate about whether the sequel was actually better than the original.
There is ongoing debate about whether the sequel was actually better than the original.
Used here to acknowledge that the friend group is divided on the movie quality.
There is ongoing debate about the budget allocation for the next quarter.
There is ongoing debate about the budget allocation for the next quarter.
A polite way to say the departments are fighting over money.
There is ongoing debate about whether we want tacos or sushi tonight.
There is ongoing debate about whether we want tacos or sushi tonight.
Using a formal phrase for a small decision adds a touch of irony.
There is ongoing debate about the long-term effects of this new technology.
There is ongoing debate about the long-term effects of this new technology.
Standard journalistic use to show scientific uncertainty.
There is ongoing debate about where we should spend the holidays this year.
There is ongoing debate about where we should spend the holidays this year.
Softens the tension of a family disagreement.
There is ongoing debate about who the greatest player of all time really is.
There is ongoing debate about who the greatest player of all time really is.
Highlights a classic, never-ending sports argument.
自我测试
Choose the best word to complete the professional observation.
There is ___ debate about the impact of remote work on productivity.
The standard collocation is `ongoing debate`, meaning the discussion is currently happening.
Complete the sentence to show a lack of consensus.
There is ongoing debate ___ the best way to solve the traffic problem.
We use the preposition `about` (or sometimes `regarding`) to introduce the topic of the debate.
🎉 得分： /2
视觉学习工具
Formality of 'Ongoing Debate'
People are talking about...
We're still deciding on pizza.
There's a discussion about...
The team is discussing the plan.
There is ongoing debate about...
There is ongoing debate about the policy.
Where to use 'Ongoing Debate'
Academic Essay
Writing about climate solutions.
Office Meeting
Discussing a project delay.
News Broadcast
Reporting on political changes.
Sarcastic Text
Arguing over the best cat meme.
常见问题
10 个问题It is slightly formal, but you can use it jokingly. For example, There is ongoing debate about who left the dishes in the sink.
You can, but argument sounds more personal and angry. Debate sounds more like a logical disagreement.
Usually about, over, or regarding. For example, debate about the rules or debate over the costs.
Not necessarily. It just means the disagreement exists and hasn't been resolved yet.
Yes, you can say There was ongoing debate, but it's most common in the present tense to describe current issues.
A controversy usually implies people are upset or shocked. Ongoing debate is more about intellectual or practical disagreement.
Just place it at the beginning: There is ongoing debate about whether we should move house.
Yes, it is very common in both American and British English, especially in media and professional settings.
Yes, but it sounds a bit dramatic. Using it for 'what to watch on TV' is usually done for a humorous effect.
Saying There is an ongoing debate is fine, but people often forget the about and try to end the sentence too early.
相关表达
The jury is still out
A decision hasn't been made yet.
A bone of contention
A specific subject that people always argue about.
To be at odds
To be in disagreement with someone.
A matter of opinion
Something that depends on personal taste rather than fact.
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