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 Word Forms

• nondebatable adjective
• undebatable adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of debatable¹

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

Example Sentences

This is debatable, but one thing is certain: Millie’s caregivers and their communities will suffer.

From Salon

Where else were we going to sit in a milelong drive-thru line at midnight waiting for a delicious burger and debatable fries?

From Los Angeles Times

His impact on the film world is debatable, but fictional Hollywood studio head Matt Remick has earned the respect of his TV peers.

From Los Angeles Times

Shapiro isn't speaking truth out of the goodness of his heart, the existence of which is still debatable.

From Salon

It’s debatable whether he’s doing a burlesque of Susan Collins or is simply out of his depth.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

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