Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Showing results for debate. Search instead for debat.
Definitions

debate

[dih-beyt] / dɪˈbeɪt /




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.

See Examples For:

Friday's second reading debate will allow MPs to consider the main principles of the bill and they must start voting before 14:30 BST.

From BBC Sep. 11, 2026

That “would be a dramatic departure from the customary understanding of ‘waters of the United States,’” said Royal Gardner, a professor at Stetson University who has written a history of this debate.

From The Wall Street Journal Sep. 10, 2026

"The debate is good for society. It's what Charlie did."

From BBC Sep. 10, 2026

But the debate between the Iraqi leader and the CIA analyst—the former arrogant, canny and pragmatic; the latter cautious, politic but unyielding—makes for an exciting primer on the recent history of the region.

From The Wall Street Journal Sep. 10, 2026

Smith also led the debate on behalf of the Deep South on that other great text, which was not the Bible but the Constitution.

From "Founding Brothers: The Revolutionary Generation" by Joseph J. Ellis

Back then, they were “a fount of car games, sing-alongs, impassioned debates, and wistful dreaming-out-loud.”

From Slate Sep. 9, 2026

On Aug. 19, Becerra promised multiple debates with Hilton ahead of the general election.

From Los Angeles Times Sep. 8, 2026

Before the debates, Mr. Bush and his advisers managed expectations by hyping Mr. Gore as a great debater.

From The Wall Street Journal Sep. 4, 2026

For Tamang, however, such debates are already too late.

From Barron's Sep. 3, 2026

Despite this lack I still found debates useful in practising English.

From "Kaffir Boy: An Autobiography" by Mark Mathabane

The reforms, which have yet to be debated in Congress, have drawn criticism from rights groups, opposition leaders and even members of the ruling coalition.

From Barron's Sep. 3, 2026

It is one of 65 amendments to the same bill that was debated this week.

From BBC Sep. 2, 2026

Still others remember the raucous meetings at which its fate was debated.

From The Wall Street Journal Sep. 2, 2026

For years, researchers have debated why the name of the Assyrian king originally associated with the monument was overwritten with the name of another "Tiglath-pileser."

From Science Daily Aug. 26, 2026

As Caesar and Cora wolfed down the rest of the pumpernickel loaf and slices of ham, the men debated the merits of venturing now or after nightfall.

From "The Underground Railroad: A Novel" by Colson Whitehead

Growing the game means fans from Rome to Caracas debating their dream teams in anticipation of the Games.

From Los Angeles Times Sep. 10, 2026

"The speech arrives against a difficult policy backdrop. Inflation remains above target for a sixth consecutive year, while Fed officials have begun debating whether tighter policy may still be required."

From Barron's Aug. 28, 2026

At university, she was involved in the debating society and now realises that has prepared her for thinking on her feet.

From BBC Aug. 26, 2026

Therefore, it is “the default connectivity partner” for customers debating between copper and fiber components, in his view.

From MarketWatch Aug. 21, 2026

I sit there, with the phone in mv hand, debating whether to call him back.

From "The Girl on the Train" by Paula Hawkins




Vocabulary lists containing debate


Vocabulary.com logo
by dictionary.com

Dictionary.com's Learning Companion

Go beyond just looking up words.
Remember them forever with VocabTrainer.

Start training