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debate

[dih-beyt] / dɪˈbeɪt /




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.

Tuchel has spent recent months deflecting debate about whether Real Madrid's Jude Bellingham or Morgan Rogers of Aston Villa should take England's number 10 role when the stakes are at their highest.

From BBC • Jun. 11, 2026

In the one debate he participated in, Pratt put Bass on the defensive, turned Raman into a tongue-tied mess, kept his answers sharp and relatable, and even earned the praise of the moderators.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 10, 2026

The drop in first-quarter GDP marked the second consecutive quarterly contraction, and the third in four quarters, triggering a debate about whether Canada is in a recession.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 10, 2026

The effectiveness is open to debate with coaches having a three-minute hydration break in each half as a natural timeout.

From BBC • Jun. 10, 2026

His evident distress at these Quaker petitions was rooted in his belief that the current debate represented a violation of that understanding.

From "Founding Brothers: The Revolutionary Generation" by Joseph J. Ellis




Vocabulary lists containing debate


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