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Definitions

debate

[dih-beyt] / dɪˈbeɪt /
NOUN
discussion of issues; consideration
Synonyms
STRONGEST
argument contest controversy deliberation dispute match
STRONG
agitation altercation argumentation cogitation contention controverting dialectic disputation hassle meditation mooting polemic rebutting reflection refuting tiff words wrangle
WEAK
blah-blah forensic
Antonyms
STRONGEST
agreement peace quiet
STRONG
harmony
VERB
argue, discuss
Synonyms
STRONGEST
answer bicker consider contest deliberate oppose question wrangle
STRONG
agitate altercate bandy canvass cogitate confab confute contend controvert demonstrate differ disprove dispute hassle moot pettifog prove reason rebut refute rehash
WEAK
bump heads chew the fat cross swords discept hammer away at hash over have at it kick around knock around lock horns pick a bone put up argument set to talk back talk game thrash out toss around
Antonyms
STRONGEST
agree
STRONG
endorse give in go along harmonize make peace prove

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.

The former official asked not to be named to avoid a public debate with the industry.

From Salon • Apr. 4, 2026

Up to 1776, essays published as pamphlets had dominated political debate in the American colonies.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 3, 2026

The justices could choose to focus on a 1952 law passed by Congress that codified birthright citizenship and not wade into the larger constitutional debate, said Stephen Yale-Loehr, an immigration law expert.

From BBC • Apr. 1, 2026

“This is an obvious area of debate for investors and one where both sides have very pointed views,” Muse wrote.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 1, 2026

The fullest and most intellectually interesting debate occurred in Virginia.

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

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.