Debate Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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debate
[dɪˈbeɪt ]
Definitions
formal discussion
A debate is a formal discussion on a particular topic in a public meeting or legislative assembly, in which opposing arguments are put forward and the best one is chosen.
Synonyms
argument, discussion, dispute.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| debate |
This word is ideal for formal discussions where opposing arguments are presented in a structured manner. It is often used in academic, political, or professional settings.
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| discussion |
This word is best used for an exchange of ideas or information in a calm and polite manner. It is often used in both formal and informal settings to describe a cooperative effort to explore a topic.
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| argument |
This word typically refers to a heated exchange of opinions, often involving strong emotions and disagreements. It can occur in both formal and informal settings, but may have a negative connotation.
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| dispute |
This word is commonly used to refer to a disagreement or conflict, often involving legal or contractual issues. It has a more formal tone and can imply a serious, ongoing conflict.
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Examples of usage
- The candidates engaged in a heated debate over healthcare policy.
- The debate on climate change sparked a lot of interest.
argue about
Debate means to argue about a particular subject, especially one that causes strong feelings or opinions.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| debate |
Use 'debate' when referring to a formal discussion between two or more people where different viewpoints are expressed. This often occurs in academic, political, or organized settings.
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| discuss |
Use 'discuss' when people talk about a topic in an open and often informal manner, sharing ideas and opinions without necessarily trying to win an argument.
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| argue |
Use 'argue' when there is a strong disagreement between people, often in an informal or emotional manner. It can have a negative connotation as it suggests conflict.
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| deliberate |
Use 'deliberate' in situations where careful consideration and thought are required before making a decision. This term is commonly used in legal or formal meetings.
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Examples of usage
- They debated for hours about which movie to watch.
- The team debated the best strategy for the upcoming game.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The word 'debate' comes from the Old French 'debatter' which means 'to battle or fight', reflecting the idea of a clash of ideas.
- Formal debates have been around since ancient Greece, where philosophers like Socrates would argue different viewpoints.
- The first recorded public debate in the U.S. was in 1620, showing how long this practice has been important in discussions.
Civic Engagement
- Debates are crucial in democratic societies, as they allow citizens to understand different perspectives before making decisions.
- Many political elections feature debates, helping voters learn about candidates' positions and policies.
- Engaging in debates fosters critical thinking skills, encouraging individuals to analyze and articulate their thoughts clearly.
Pop Culture
- Debates are popular in television shows, making issues entertaining and informative by showing strong arguments for and against them.
- In the movie 'The Great Debaters', the power of strong arguments and teamwork is celebrated, showcasing the impact of debate on society.
- There are even debate clubs in schools, where students learn to express their opinions and develop speaking skills in a supportive environment.
Psychology
- Research shows that participating in debates can increase confidence and improve public speaking abilities due to the practice of presenting ideas.
- Debate formats encourage listeners to engage with challenging views, helping them to build tolerance and understanding of differences.
- Psychological studies suggest that people involved in debates often experience enhanced critical thinking skills, as they must consider various arguments.
Education
- Debate is an essential tool in education, where students learn to research, organize their thoughts, and defend their ideas with evidence.
- In academic settings, debates are often used to evaluate students' ability to engage critically with a topic and articulate their positions.
- Many universities have strong debate teams that compete nationally and internationally, promoting higher learning and skill development in students.
Origin of 'debate'
The word 'debate' originated from the Old French word 'debatre', which means 'to fight' or 'to beat'. It entered the English language in the 13th century with the meaning of 'to quarrel' or 'to contend'. Over time, the word evolved to represent a formal discussion or argument on a particular topic.