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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

Even before the new cars ran for the first time, there was intense debate about the merits of a set of regulations that have created an entirely unfamiliar version of racing.

From BBC • Apr. 3, 2026

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

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 3, 2026

But it’s still up for debate whether Verizon and its competitors will “pay a price” for what will be “sharply reduced disclosure going forward.”

From MarketWatch • Apr. 2, 2026

My heart rate finally elevated slightly above somber territory as we engaged in a heated debate over which came first, the chicken or the egg.

From "Sir Fig Newton and the Science of Persistence" by Sonja Thomas

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