debate

/di'beit/
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debate

The students have a debate in their classroom.

Definition
  1. Noun:

    • A formal discussion on a particular topic, often in a public meeting or legislative assembly, where opposing arguments are presented: A structured contest of argumentation, typically followed by a vote.
    • A general discussion involving opposing viewpoints: Any discussion in which reasons for and against a proposition, idea, or action are considered.
  2. Verb:

    • To discuss a topic formally, presenting opposing arguments: To engage in a structured argument or formal discussion.
    • To consider or discuss different sides of a question or issue: To deliberate on the pros and cons of something.
    • To think about something carefully before making a decision: To ponder or weigh options in one's mind.
Examples of Usage
  • Noun:

    • The parliamentary debate on the new law lasted for hours.
    • There is an ongoing public debate about climate change policies.
  • Verb:

    • The candidates will debate the key issues on live television.
    • We debated whether to invest in new equipment or repair the old.
    • She debated the offer in her mind for several days before responding.
Advanced Usage
  • "Under debate": Being discussed or argued about.
    • The exact location for the new hospital is still under debate.
  • "Open to debate": Not yet decided or agreed upon; a matter for discussion.
    • Whether this is the most effective method is open to debate.
Variants and Related Words
  • Debater (n): A person who debates or is skilled in formal argument.
    • She was a champion debater in high school.
  • Debatable (adj): Open to discussion or argument; questionable.
    • The effectiveness of that strategy is highly debatable.
Synonyms
  • Noun: Discussion, argument, dispute, deliberation, controversy.
  • Verb: Discuss, argue, deliberate, contend, dispute, moot.
Related Phrasal Verbs

(Note: "Debate" is not commonly used with particles to form phrasal verbs. Its meaning is typically conveyed directly or with prepositions like "about" or "on.") - Debate on/upon/about: To argue or discuss a specific topic. - The committee will debate on the proposed budget cuts.

Related Idioms
  • "The cut and thrust of debate": The lively and aggressive exchange of opposing views in a discussion.
    • He enjoys the cut and thrust of political debate.
  • "A debating point": A point or argument made primarily to score a victory in a debate rather than to establish the truth.
    • His criticism was more of a debating point than a serious contribution.
debate

The students have a debate in their classroom.

Noun
  1. the formal presentation of a stated proposition and the opposition to it (usually followed by a vote)
  2. a discussion in which reasons are advanced for and against some proposition or proposal
    • the argument over foreign aid goes on and on
Verb
  1. have an argument about something
  2. discuss the pros and cons of an issue
  3. think about carefully; weigh
    • They considered the possibility of a strike
    • Turn the proposal over in your mind
  4. argue with one another
    • We debated the question of abortion
    • John debated Mary