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.

Consider the raw drama of the first televised presidential debate, where a sweaty Richard Nixon and confident John F. Kennedy traded barbs.

From Los Angeles Times

Hamilton's comments come as F1 is locked in a debate about the impact of the new car and engine regulations that were introduced this season.

From BBC

Keller, for one, is hopeful for a resolution to the debate.

From The Wall Street Journal

Holyrood has broken up for May's election, and parties will spend the next six weeks debating their policies for the future of Scotland.

From BBC

Hours ahead of Wednesday's debate in the Lords, the government also said social media bans, digital curfews and time limits on apps are to be trialled in the homes of 300 UK teenagers.

From BBC

debate

Usage

Example Sentences

Related Words