"of public debate" vs "of the public debate"

Question

"of public debate" vs "of the public debate"

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in slightly different contexts. 'Of the public debate' is used when referring to a specific, known public debate, while 'of public debate' is more general and can refer to public debates in general.

Last Updated: March 20, 2024

Use 'of public debate' when you are talking about public debates in a general sense, without specifying a particular debate.

Examples:

The role of media in shaping the outcome of public debate is crucial.
The impact of social media on public debate cannot be underestimated.

Alternatives:

of debates in public
of the debate in public
of the ongoing debate
of the current debate
of debates among the public

Use 'of the public debate' when you are talking about a particular public debate that is known or specified.

Examples:

The outcome of the public debate was unexpected.
The arguments presented in the public debate were compelling.

Alternatives:

of that public debate
of this public debate
of a specific public debate
of a particular public debate
of an ongoing public debate

Answer 1

of public debate

This phrase is correct and commonly used when referring to public debates in general.

Answer 2

of the public debate

This phrase is correct and commonly used when referring to a specific, known public debate.

"of public debate" vs "of the public debate"

of public debate

of the public debate

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