Definition

In a manner that can be argued or questioned; open to discussion.

Example

The proposal is debatably the best option for the project.

Conversation

I think pineapple on pizza is debatably the best topping.

Really? I’ve heard a lot of people disagree with that.

Yeah, it’s definitely a topic that sparks a lot of opinions, debatably more than any other topping.

That’s true! It's fun to see how passionate people can get about it.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Debatably → It is formed from "debate" (from Old French *debattre*, meaning to fight or contend) and the suffix "-ably" (meaning in a manner that can be). The word "debatably" means in a manner that can be debated or argued.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'debate' as a discussion where people argue different sides, and '-ably' means it can be done in that way. So, debatable means something that can be argued about.

Visually Confused Words