Debating: meaning, definitions and examples

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debating

[dɪˈbeɪtɪŋ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

in discussions

Discuss a question by considering opposing arguments. Debate involves presenting your own viewpoint as well as critiquing the opposing viewpoint. It often involves structured arguments, rebuttals, and counterarguments. Debating is a common activity in academic settings, political arenas, and formal competitions.

Synonyms

argue, deliberate, discuss.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
debating	Used when referring to a formal or structured discussion on a particular topic, often with set rules or within an official setting. The students are preparing for the debate tournament The politicians were debating the new policy in parliament
argue	Generally used in a more informal or emotional context, often involving a conflict or disagreement. Can have a negative connotation. They always argue about household chores The siblings started to argue over the game
discuss	Used for general conversation or exchange of ideas about a topic, without necessarily implying conflict or a formal setting. We need to discuss our plans for the weekend The team will discuss the project details in the meeting
deliberate	Used when discussing careful consideration or long and thoughtful discussion, typically before making a decision. The jury took hours to deliberate on the case The council will deliberate on the new proposal tomorrow

Examples of usage

During the debate, the candidates presented their arguments for healthcare reform.
Debating the merits of capitalism versus socialism can lead to lively discussions.
The team spent hours preparing their case for the debate competition.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

formal discussion

A formal discussion on a particular topic in which opposing arguments are put forward. Debates are often moderated to ensure fairness and adherence to rules. They can be informative, persuasive, and entertaining for both participants and audience members.

Synonyms

argument, controversy, discussion.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
debating	Used when referring to a formal or structured discussion where participants express different viewpoints on a specific topic. The students were debating the merits of renewable energy. Debating in a team helps improve critical thinking skills.
discussion	Refers to a more casual or informal exchange of ideas and information, generally without conflict. The meeting ended with a productive discussion on the project timeline. They had a lengthy discussion about their upcoming vacation plans.
argument	Often used in situations where two or more people have a disagreement or are speaking in a heated manner. Can have a negative connotation. Their argument over the movie ruined the evening. She didn't want to get into an argument about politics at dinner.
controversy	Used when referring to a prolonged public dispute or debate prompted by a matter of opinion or interest. It often encompasses a larger audience and is usually more serious. The new policy has sparked a huge controversy. The controversy surrounding the book only increased its popularity.

Examples of usage

The presidential debate was watched by millions of viewers.
Participating in debates helped improve his public speaking skills.
The debate over climate change continues to be a hot topic.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

The word traces back to the Old French 'debatre,' which means to 'fight' or 'dispute,' showing its roots in argument.
Formal debating has been a practice since Ancient Greece, where sophists used it to teach persuasive speaking.
The famous 'Lincoln-Douglas Debates' of 1858 were pivotal in American politics and highlighted the importance of structured argumentation.

Education

Debating is often part of school curricula, helping students build critical thinking skills and confidence in public speaking.
Participants learn to research topics thoroughly, developing skills in evidence gathering and logical reasoning.
It often takes place in formats like parliamentary or policy debates, emphasizing structure and routine.

Pop Culture

Several movies, like 'The Great Debaters,' highlight how debating can influence social change and personal growth.
Television shows often feature debates on current affairs, making the art of argument accessible to a wide audience.
Debate competitions are popular on college campuses, showcasing student talents and fostering community engagement.

Psychology

Engaging in debates can promote cognitive flexibility, allowing individuals to understand different perspectives.
Research shows that debating enhances empathy, as it requires you to consider and articulate the views of others.
Debating may activate emotional responses, sometimes leading to more passionate arguments or frustration.

Literature

Many classic literary works feature debate-like discussions, demonstrating conflict between characters’ ideas or morals.
Works such as 'The Republic' by Plato engage readers in philosophical debates about justice and society.
The argumentative structure found in debates is echoed in satirical literature, where authors present contrasting viewpoints humorously.

Translations

Translations of the word "debating" in other languages:

🇵🇹 debatendo

🇮🇳 बहस कर रहे हैं

🇩🇪 debattieren

🇮🇩 berdebat

🇺🇦 дебатуючи

🇵🇱 debatując

🇯🇵 討論している

🇫🇷 débattre

🇪🇸 debatiendo

🇹🇷 tartışmak

🇰🇷 토론 중인

🇸🇦 يناقش

🇨🇿 debatování

🇸🇰 debatovanie

🇨🇳 辩论

🇸🇮 razpravljanje

🇮🇸 rökræða

🇰🇿 пікірталасу

🇬🇪 დებატება

🇦🇿 müzakirə etmək

🇲🇽 debatiendo

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,660, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.

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13658 explorers
13659 afloat
13660 debating
13661 monsoon
13662 glycogen
13663 bandage
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