debate 1 of 2

1
as in consideration
a careful weighing of the reasons for or against something after much debate, I decided to get the chocolate ice cream

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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debate

2 of 2

verb

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb debate contrast with its synonyms?

The words argue and discuss are common synonyms of debate. While all three words mean "to discourse about in order to reach conclusions or to convince," debate suggests formal or public argument between opposing parties; it may also apply to deliberation with oneself.

debated the merits of the amendment
I'm debating whether I should go

Where would argue be a reasonable alternative to debate?

In some situations, the words argue and debate are roughly equivalent. However, argue implies the offering of reasons or evidence in support of convictions already held.

argued that the project would be too costly

When can discuss be used instead of debate?

The words discuss and debate are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, discuss implies a sifting of possibilities especially by presenting considerations pro and con.

discussed the need for a new highway

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of debate
Noun
Sarkisian also touched on the debate over whether Ewers should have considered going back to school and taken substantial name, image and likeness money to transfer elsewhere for one more year rather than go pro. Sam Khan Jr., New York Times, 29 Apr. 2025 The network’s lead anchor, David Muir, has been a target of Trump’s since last year’s presidential debate. Ted Johnson, Deadline, 29 Apr. 2025
Verb
Artificial intelligence is a hot topic on screen at present but its use is also being debated behind the camera. Max Goldbart, Deadline, 29 Apr. 2025 The Eagles’ White House visit, a tradition for all Super Bowl champions, has been hotly debated. Joseph Wilkinson, New York Daily News, 28 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for debate
Recent Examples of Synonyms for debate
Noun
  • Certainly nothing that’s happened with the tariffs debacle has shown that there’s careful thought or consideration behind any move day-to-day.
    New York Daily News Editorial Board, New York Daily News, 30 Apr. 2025
  • Without such careful consideration, Goldman predicts a dystopian future prompted by age verification laws.
    ArsTechnica, ArsTechnica, 30 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Now, with the controversy behind him, Benn has the opportunity to finally face Eubank in the ring.
    Brian Mazique, Forbes.com, 26 Apr. 2025
  • Despite the controversy, for the Hilton, that doesn't change the imperative to serve.
    Major Garrett, CBS News, 26 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • The LinkedIn algorithm rewards users who actively participate in discussions across the platform.
    Jodie Cook, Forbes.com, 25 Apr. 2025
  • But, after a discussion with Barman, she was hooked on the concept.
    Thomas G. Moukawsher, MSNBC Newsweek, 25 Apr. 2025
Verb
  • Asking this question encourages employees to pause and ponder.
    Rachel Pacheco, Forbes.com, 1 May 2025
  • Gibson ponders Indigeneity, belonging, modern music and a more equitable future across the exhibit’s paintings, sculptures, flags and video installation.
    Alia Yee Noll, Los Angeles Times, 1 May 2025
Verb
  • These topics and more will continue to be discussed leading up to the draft.
    Mark LaSota, Forbes.com, 23 Apr. 2025
  • Putin also discussed Iran's nuclear program with Oman's Sultan Haitham bin Tariq Al Said during his visit to Moscow, the Kremlin said, as Oman continues its mediation efforts between Tehran and Washington.
    Ross Rosenfeld, MSNBC Newsweek, 23 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • As such, the results of this list should not be used as the sole source of information for future deliberations.
    TIME Staff, Time, 29 Apr. 2025
  • All things considered, the economic policymaking of Trump’s team looks less like rational deliberation and more like firefighting while knowing that the fire chief is the primary arsonist.
    John Cassidy, New Yorker, 28 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Book dispute is one of three religious rights cases The case is one of three religious rights cases the Supreme Court is deciding in the coming weeks, and appears likely to be part of a recent trend of the court siding with religious rights advocates.
    Maureen Groppe, USA Today, 23 Apr. 2025
  • At this point, supporter opposition to the Egyptian venture appeared to have ulterior reasoning, beyond the dispute about Mashhour’s comments, owing to the club’s recent performance on the pitch.
    Adam Crafton, New York Times, 22 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • The residency includes consultations with industry professionals.
    Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 25 Apr. 2025
  • Among other services, LPE will help embed sustainability values in scripts through consultations, and provide training, panels and courses to up-skill industry works.
    Jesse Whittock, Deadline, 23 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Debate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/debate. Accessed 5 May. 2025.

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