debate Definition
- 1a formal discussion on a particular topic in a public meeting or legislative assembly, in which opposing arguments are put forward and which usually ends with a vote
- 2argue about (a subject), especially in a formal manner
Using debate: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "debate" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The candidates will participate in a debate on healthcare policy.
Example
We debated the merits of different types of exercise.
Example
The issue has been hotly debated for years.
Example
The team debated whether to go for it on fourth down.
debate Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for debate
Idioms Using debate
Example
The proposal is still in debate and has not yet been approved.
Example
The issue is still under debate and no decision has been made yet.
Example
The judge's ruling ended the debate over the admissibility of the evidence.
Phrases with debate
a discussion that is open to the public and allows for participation from anyone who wishes to speak
Example
The town hall meeting was an open debate on the proposed changes to the zoning laws.
Example
She joined the debate team in high school and became one of the top debaters in the state.
Example
The debate society at the university hosts weekly debates on a variety of topics.
Origins of debate
from Old French 'debatre', meaning 'to fight'
Summary: debate in Brief
The term 'debate' [dɪˈbeɪt] refers to a formal discussion on a particular topic in a public meeting or legislative assembly, in which opposing arguments are put forward and which usually ends with a vote. It can also mean to argue about a subject, especially in a formal manner. 'Debate' is often used in phrases like 'open debate,' 'debate team,' and 'debate society,' and idioms like 'in debate' and 'under debate.'
