noun / verb
debate
dih-BAYT/dɪˈbeɪt/
Discussion or consideration of opposing views.
The speakers present opposing arguments in a debate before an audience.
Etymology
The image of beating or fighting developed into contention through words rather than blows. A debate narrowed this verbal conflict into a formal exchange of opposing arguments.
In context
That is, kind of, go somewhere to argue where they were not. (Laughter) For the uninitiated, the premises of formal debate are really straightforward: there's a big idea on the table
More examples
- The proposed parking fees sparked a lively debate among neighbors.
- Council members are debating whether to build a new library.
- I debated whether to walk home or take the bus.
- Students learn to support their claims in school debates.
Forms
debate · debates · debated · debating
debater noun — someone who takes part in debates
debatable adjective — open to question or reasonable disagreement
Similar words
- discussion
- Can explore a topic without presenting opposing arguments.
- argument
- Can mean a heated disagreement without formal speaking rules.
- negotiation
- Aims to reach an agreement, not just compare opposing views.