Meaning & Definition of Debate in English
English⟶
Debate
/dəbet/
noun
1. A discussion in which reasons are advanced for and against some proposition or proposal
- "The argument over foreign aid goes on and on"
synonym:
- argument,
- argumentation,
- debate
2. The formal presentation of a stated proposition and the opposition to it (usually followed by a vote)
synonym:
- debate,
- disputation,
- public debate
verb
1. Argue with one another
- "We debated the question of abortion"
- "John debated mary"
synonym:
- debate
2. Think about carefully
- Weigh
- "They considered the possibility of a strike"
- "Turn the proposal over in your mind"
synonym:
- consider,
- debate,
- moot,
- turn over,
- deliberate
3. Discuss the pros and cons of an issue
synonym:
- debate,
- deliberate
4. Have an argument about something
synonym:
- argue,
- contend,
- debate,
- fence
Examples of using
We didn't expect the passage of the bill with so little debate.
We don't have time to debate.
After much debate, Congress passed the bill.