Every once in a while I stumble upon this phrase:
… is subject to considerable debate
Examples are easily found on the web, for instance:
In the context of suspected cognitive disorders, the validity of memory complaints is subject to considerable debate
However, this phrase does not seem grammatically correct to me. I could expect it to be:
… is a subject for considerable debate
in which case 'subject' is a noun, or:
… is subjected to considerable debate
where 'subject' is a verb in past participle.
Still, both alternatives are much less common, judging by the number of occurrences in Google, than the original phrase. So here are the questions:
- Is this phrase appropriate for formal writing?
- Is it appropriate for less formal conversation?
- Finally, is 'subject' in this phrase a noun or verb?
- Where should I put the stress when I read the phrase aloud?
Best Answer
Using the comments posted to the original question, I can assume the whole answer, which is: