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de·bate

debate

 
 
pronunciation:
dih beIt
parts of speech:
noun, intransitive verb, transitive verb
features:
Word Combinations (noun, verb), Word Explorer, Word Parts
part of speech: noun
definition 1: a discussion of two opposing viewpoints, usu. in a formal meeting or assembly.
The debate in Congress over the issue of voting machines continues.
synonyms:
deliberation, disputation
similar words:
argument, controversy, disagreement, discussion, dispute
definition 2: a formal, structured, and usu. public contest in which two speakers, or two teams of speakers, argue opposing viewpoints on a specific proposition.
Tonight's debate will be on the topic of the future use of coal as an energy source.Their team argued brilliantly, and they won the debate easily.
 
similar words:
argumentation, competition, contest
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part of speech: intransitive verb
inflections: debates, debating, debated
definition 1: to discuss or argue different points of a matter.
There is no use debating with them; they've already made up their minds.
synonyms:
argue, contend, dispute
similar words:
altercate, deliberate, oppose
definition 2: to engage in a formal debate.
The two teams will debate this evening.
synonyms:
contend
 
part of speech: transitive verb
definition 1: to discuss or argue (an issue or issues).
The town council will be debating the issue of whether or not to build another parking garage downtown.
synonyms:
argue, contend, controvert, discuss, dispute
similar words:
bandy, oppose, protest
definition 2: to contend with in a formal debate.
When she debated the senator in the last election, she came out well.
synonyms:
contend
definition 3: to ponder or consider; think over.
I am debating whether to go or just stay home.
synonyms:
consider, deliberate, ponder
similar words:
cogitate, contemplate, meditate, reason
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derivation: debater (n.)
Word Explorer
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  communication, democracy, legislature, politics, science
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