Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Definitions

debatable

[dih-bey-tuh-buhl] / dɪˈbeɪ tə bəl /
ADJECTIVE
controversial
Synonyms
STRONGEST
arguable doubtful dubious moot problematic questionable uncertain
WEAK
between rock and hard place between sixes and sevens betwixt and between bone of contention borderline chancy contestable disputable iffy in dispute mootable open to question problematical the jury's out touch and go undecided unsettled up for discussion
Antonyms
STRONGEST
certain clear decided definite proven resolved settled sure unquestionable
WEAK
inarguable incontrovertible indubious questionable uncontestable undoubted

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

It’s debatable whether AI efficiencies are as responsible for layoffs and salary deflation as some executives claim.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 19, 2026

While it was debatable how much flexibility “around 5%” entailed, most market participants viewed this as within 0.2-0.3 percentage points of 5%.

From Barron's • Mar. 6, 2026

With almost every other sport, the difference is debatable.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 22, 2026

You might think this one is debatable, but it’s not.

From MarketWatch • Jan. 9, 2026

Still debatable are the origins of writing on Easter Island, in China, and in Egypt.

From "Guns, Germs, and Steel: The Fates of Human Societies" by Jared M. Diamond

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.