debate 1 of 2

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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
The proposition that reporters unintentionally missed the full story of Biden’s decline is much more credible, and has been advanced not only by Thompson and Tapper but by numerous journalistic bigwigs, both now and in the immediate aftermath of the debate. Jon Allsop, New Yorker, 23 May 2025 But exactly how, when and where humans expanded has long been a source of debate. Sarah Kuta, Smithsonian Magazine, 23 May 2025
Verb
The committee held a marathon 27-hour markup to debate the GOP ObamaCare repeal legislation in 2017; this one could be even longer. Nathaniel Weixel, The Hill, 8 May 2025 The finding is potentially controversial, because paleontologists have long debated T. rex’s origins. Paul Smaglik, Discover Magazine, 8 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for debate
Recent Examples of Synonyms for debate
Noun
  • The measure, which would implement much of Trump’s second-term agenda, will now go to the Senate for consideration.
    Amy DeLaura, The Washington Examiner, 24 May 2025
  • Florida, for example, prohibits state institutions from giving preferential consideration for employment, admission, or promotion.
    Ken Alltucker, USA Today, 24 May 2025
Noun
  • Her crypto controversy began the very next day, resulting in a show hiatus.
    Skyler Caruso, People.com, 20 May 2025
  • Meanwhile, Trump and his allies have attracted their own commencement controversies.
    Emma Whitford, Forbes.com, 19 May 2025
Noun
  • The free site features job listings as well as mental health resources, discussion boards, and networking events.
    Terry Collins, USA Today, 20 May 2025
  • Just in time for Roland Garros, where the main draw begins May 25, ‘The Tennis Podcast’ is bringing its insightful analysis and engaging discussions to The Athletic Podcast Network.
    The Athletic Tennis Staff, New York Times, 19 May 2025
Verb
  • That could also come into play as Dungey and her team ponder more comedies on TBS and another tentpole drama for TNT.
    Michael Schneider, Variety, 14 May 2025
  • While Malibu leaders ponder the future, the state of most of the septic systems along PCH remains a mystery.
    James Rainey, Los Angeles Times, 11 May 2025
Verb
  • An Israeli military official, who requested anonymity to discuss operational details, said that some ground troops had begun to advance in Gaza, but declined to say when, where or how far.
    Aaron Boxerman, New York Times, 17 May 2025
  • But social media is full of media personalities and onlookers discussing the Combs trial with the timbre of a gossip blogger recounting a Real Housewives episode.
    Andre Gee, Rolling Stone, 17 May 2025
Noun
  • In every era of rapid technological change, there come moments of deliberation: wait for policy or lead through practice?
    Katy Knight, Forbes.com, 13 May 2025
  • In April, after a nearly four-week trial — and one day of deliberation — a Nassau County jury found both men guilty.
    Muri Assunção, New York Daily News, 13 May 2025
Noun
  • That transaction resolved a long-running dispute between Dea Spanos Berberian and her siblings as Gores and his wife bought Spanos Berberian’s share of the franchise.
    Houston Mitchell, Los Angeles Times, 16 May 2025
  • The dispute has unfolded as CBS parent company Paramount Global seeks the FCC’s approval for a multi-billion-dollar merger with Skydance.
    Sara Dorn, Forbes.com, 16 May 2025
Noun
  • One of the best ways to understand the entire process is to schedule a consultation and review your finances with a professional.
    Jason Phillips, USA Today, 17 May 2025
  • The next consultation day is from 9 to 11 a.m. May 17.
    Linda Mcintosh, San Diego Union-Tribune, 16 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Debate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/debate. Accessed 27 May. 2025.

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