# arguable

/ˈɑɹɡjuəbəɫ/ (US) · /ˈɑːɡjuːəbəl/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/arguable
Updated: 2026-10-16

## Definition

something people can disagree about because both sides have good reasons. You use it when something might be true, but it is not certain.

For teachers: open to reasoned disagreement; capable of being supported by argument or evidence. Often occurs in the frame 'it is arguable that' to present a claim as debatable rather than certain.

## Examples

- It is arguable that coffee tastes better in the morning.
- Lawyers say it is arguable that the contract still applies after the company changed its name.
- Whether economic growth alone improves well-being remains arguable, since rising incomes often coincide with longer hours and weaker community ties.

## Usage notes

- Typically used predicatively; common in the pattern 'it is arguable that' + clause.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.