debatable

[ dih-bey-tuh-buhl ]

adjective

1. open to question; in dispute; doubtful:

   Whether or not he is qualified for the job is debatable.

   Synonyms: disputable, arguable, dubious, questionable

2. capable of being debated.

debatable

/ dɪˈbeɪtəbəl /

adjective

1. open to question; disputable
2. law in dispute, as land or territory to which two parties lay claim

Other Words From

• nonde·bata·ble adjective
• unde·bata·ble adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of debatable¹

1425–75; late Middle English < Middle French. See debate, -able

Example Sentences

Whether those are necessary ingredients in the bittersweet romance an ambitious woman cultivates with herself is debatable.

From Salon

That point is certainly debatable, but it’s hard to imagine a Hollywood script more dramatic and poignant than P-22’s life story.

From Los Angeles Times

If the wisdom of Pakistan recycling the pitch from the first Test in the hope of getting a different result is debatable, there is no denying it created a fascinating spectacle.

From BBC

While the practicality of Harris’s proposal may be debatable, its political shrewdness is undeniable.

From Salon

The merits of the point for fastest lap have always been debatable since it was introduced a few years ago.

From BBC

Related Words

• arguable
• doubtful
• dubious
• moot
• problematic
• questionable
• uncertain