debate

[dɪˈbeɪt]

debate Definition

• 1. 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
• 2. argue 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

• discussion
• argument
• dispute
• controversy
• deliberation

Antonyms for debate

• agreement
• consensus

Idioms Using debate

• in debate

  in the process of being discussed or argued

  Example

  The proposal is still in debate and has not yet been approved.

• under debate

  being discussed or argued

  Example

  The issue is still under debate and no decision has been made yet.

• end the debate

  to bring a discussion or argument to a conclusion

  Example

  The judge's ruling ended the debate over the admissibility of the evidence.

Phrases with debate

• open 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.

• debate team

  a group of individuals who compete against other teams in formal debates

  Example

  She joined the debate team in high school and became one of the top debaters in the state.

• debate society

  an organization that promotes and facilitates formal debates among its members

  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'

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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.'