Meaning & use
debate
A formal discussion in which people express differing views on a topic, often to persuade an audience.
See it in a sentence
The presidential debate drew millions of viewers eager to compare the candidates.
There is ongoing debate among economists about the causes of inflation.
A note on using this word
Debate implies structured, often competitive argument, unlike a casual 'discussion,' which need not involve opposing sides.
Words with a similar meaning
discussionargument
Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.
Words with an opposite meaning
Another way to use it
2. verb
To discuss a topic formally, presenting arguments for and against it.
The students debated whether homework should be required in elementary school.
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