debate

A discussion in which people consider different opinions about a subject.

• The plan started a debate.
• There is growing debate about how we use water.
• Her article added a new idea to the public debate.

How to use it: debate about/over something (The debate over school meals continues.)

Similar words: discussion

Common phrases: public debate, debate about something, debate over something

An organized discussion where people present opposing views, often before a vote or decision.

• The debate lasted two hours.
• Both candidates spoke in the televised debate.
• After several debates, members voted to accept the proposal.

How to use it: debate on something (The committee held a debate on the new rules.)

Similar words: discussion

Common phrases: hold a debate, parliamentary debate, debate on something

A lively but usually polite conversation between people who disagree.

• We had a friendly debate.
• Dinner ended with a debate over which film to watch.
• Their debates are lively, but nobody gets angry.

How to use it: debate about/over something (We had a lively debate about the best holiday destination.)

Similar words: discussion, argument

Common phrases: lively debate, friendly debate, debate over something

To discuss different views about a question or proposal, often before making a decision.

• The council will debate the plan tomorrow.
• Members debated whether to close the school.
• They have debated this issue for years.

How to use it: debate something with someone (We debated the proposal with the local council.)

Similar words: discuss, argue about

Common phrases: debate an issue, debate a proposal, debate with someone

To think carefully about different choices before deciding what to do.

• I debated whether to call him.
• She is debating taking a year off.
• We debated where to spend our holiday.

How to use it: debate whether to do something (I debated whether to accept the offer.); debate doing something (She debated moving to a smaller apartment.)

Similar words: consider, think over, weigh up

Common phrases: debate whether to, debate what to, debate the options

To argue for a view against another person, especially in an organized public discussion.

• The candidates will debate tonight.
• She debated her opponent before a large audience.
• Our students debate against teams from other schools.

How to use it: debate with someone (She debated with another candidate on television.); debate someone (The mayor agreed to debate his opponent.)

Similar words: argue, dispute

Common phrases: debate an opponent, debate with someone, debate against someone