debate

[dih-beyt] / dɪˈbeɪt /

NOUN

discussion of issues; consideration

Synonyms

STRONGEST

argument contest controversy deliberation dispute match

STRONG

agitation altercation argumentation cogitation contention controverting dialectic disputation hassle meditation mooting polemic rebutting reflection refuting tiff words wrangle

WEAK

blah-blah forensic

Antonyms

STRONGEST

agreement peace quiet

STRONG

harmony

VERB

argue, discuss

Synonyms

STRONGEST

answer bicker consider contest deliberate oppose question wrangle

STRONG

agitate altercate bandy canvass cogitate confab confute contend controvert demonstrate differ disprove dispute hassle moot pettifog prove reason rebut refute rehash

WEAK

bump heads chew the fat cross swords discept hammer away at hash over have at it kick around knock around lock horns pick a bone put up argument set to talk back talk game thrash out toss around

Antonyms

STRONGEST

agree

STRONG

endorse give in go along harmonize make peace prove

Usage

What are other ways to say debate? To debate is to interchange formal (usually opposing) arguments, especially on public questions: to debate a proposed amendment. To argue is to present one's reasons: The scientists argued for a safer testing procedure; it may also imply disputing in an angry or excited way: His parents argue all the time. To discuss is to present varied opinions and views: to discuss ways and means.

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.

Because some of those who backed it did so to allow the debate to continue and to see if their concerns could be addressed.

From BBC

The exchanges at the Home Affairs Committee followed a parliamentary debate in Westminster Hall on Monday in which several Labour MPs voiced their concerns.

From BBC

Sitting in the press seats above the House of Commons chamber, I witnessed an intense conclave as a compromise was thrashed out in real time while the debate among MPs was going on.

From BBC

Regional officials said there was agreement to meet in Oman on Friday, but they continued to debate the scope of the discussions and whether officials from other interested countries around the region would join them.

From The Wall Street Journal

Bianco was invited to the debate but said he was unable to attend because of a scheduling conflict.

From Los Angeles Times

debate

Usage

Example Sentences

Related Words