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.

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