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Definitions

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.

Rising redemption pressures in parts of the private-credit market — and growing concern among regulators and commentators — have sharpened the debate over financial stability.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 13, 2026

Pope Leo XIV said he had "no intention to debate" with Trump, after the US president criticised him over his comments on the war.

From Barron's • Apr. 13, 2026

At the BBC debate, Swinney told the audience the people of Scotland were "entitled" to decide their own constitutional future.

From BBC • Apr. 12, 2026

The debate over the project has grown fierce, and Tuesday’s board meeting drew a large crowd.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 11, 2026

She started to turn around, already beginning to debate with herself about whether she should report this information to Monique.

From "Found" by Margaret Peterson Haddix

Vocabulary lists containing debate

Jim Burke's Academic Vocabulary List

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The Articles of Confederation (1777)

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Speech and Debate

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