debate 1 of 2

noun

di-ˈbāt How to pronounce debate (audio)
Definition of debatenext
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

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in controversy
variance of opinion on a matter there was a great deal of debate over the need for cutting costs by eliminating some programs

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms
3
as in discussion
an exchange of views for the purpose of exploring a subject or deciding an issue there was no debate over the expenditures before the vote

Synonyms & Similar Words

debate

2 of 2

verb

1
as in to ponder
to give serious and careful thought to still debating what to do

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in to discuss
to talk about (an issue) usually from various points of view and for the purpose of arriving at a decision or opinion we debated the advantages versus the disadvantages of the proposed waterfront development

Synonyms & Similar Words

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
Now, those choices are reshaping national debates over who holds power on campus and what higher education should protect. —Dalia Faheid, CNN Money, 5 June 2025 The quote quickly ricocheted across news outlets, igniting headlines and debates about the economic future of billions. —Kolawole Samuel Adebayo, Forbes.com, 4 June 2025
Verb
Software engineers continue to debate the merits of each on various Reddit threads and forums. —Emily Forlini, PC Magazine, 4 June 2025 On the latest episode of The Totally Football Show, James Richardson was joined by Duncan Alexander, Daniel Storey and Tim Spiers to debate whether this PSG side could dominate European football for years to come. —The Totally Football Show, New York Times, 2 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for debate
Recent Examples of Synonyms for debate
  1. consideration
  2. controversy
  3. discussion
  4. ponder
  5. discuss
  6. deliberation
  7. dispute
  8. consultation
Noun
  • Manfred said consideration for a check-swing challenge system that is being tested in the Florida State League will not happen at the MLB level before the future of ABS is determined.
    — Peter Sblendorio, New York Daily News, 5 June 2025
  • Two years ago, the court’s conservative majority outlawed consideration of race in university admissions.
    — Mark Sherman, Chicago Tribune, 5 June 2025
Definition of consideration
Noun
  • However, California is far from the only state that saw its girls' track and field championships overshadowed by trans athlete controversy.
    — Jackson Thompson, FOXNews.com, 1 June 2025
  • Salgado’s pictures were also freighted with their fair share of controversy.
    — Chris Wiley, New Yorker, 31 May 2025
Definition of controversy
Noun
  • Similar discussions are occurring in more than a dozen states, including Maryland, Illinois, California, New York, Minnesota and Colorado, according to interviews with organizers and recordings of the meetings.
    — Hannah Allam, ProPublica, 31 May 2025
  • Nothing creates as much interest among UCF faithful as uniform discussions.
    — Matt Murschel, The Orlando Sentinel, 31 May 2025
Definition of discussion
Verb
  • Tyler Dragon ponders if Rodgers actually makes the Steelers better.
    — Jim Reineking, USA Today, 7 June 2025
  • Tatis pondered the question of whether being hit has affected his hitting in any way.
    — Kevin Acee, San Diego Union-Tribune, 4 June 2025
Definition of ponder
Verb
  • But the truth is, many of the most essential life planning tools—like a will, trust or guardianship directive—are rarely discussed or offered at work.
    — Cody Barbo, Forbes.com, 29 May 2025
  • Rather, Evans says, this viral moment is an opportunity to discuss what is acceptable and what isn't in a relationship.
    — Nicole Fallert, USA Today, 29 May 2025
Definition of discuss
Noun
  • Closing arguments in the retrial wrapped on Wednesday, and jury deliberations began on Thursday.
    — Ellise Shafer, Variety, 6 June 2025
  • The verdict was reached after about nine hours of deliberations over two days.
    — Nick Ferraro, Twin Cities, 6 June 2025
Definition of deliberation
Noun
  • Lee-Gardner became involved in the dispute and is accused of hitting the homeowner in her head with a pistol.
    — Mike Stunson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 28 May 2025
  • This dispute is one of several signs revealing a worsening relationship between the two leaders, reflecting broader disagreements on Iran, regional conflicts, economic policy, and diplomatic priorities.
    — Amir Daftari, MSNBC Newsweek, 28 May 2025
Definition of dispute
Noun
  • The same guidelines should apply to consultations with AI.
    — Paul Hsieh, Forbes.com, 30 May 2025
  • The next consultations can be scheduled from 9 to 11 a.m. June 7.
    — Linda Mcintosh, San Diego Union-Tribune, 29 May 2025
Definition of consultation

Browse Nearby Words

debatable
debate
debated
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Cite this Entry

“Debate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/debate. Accessed 10 Jun. 2025.

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More from Merriam-Webster on debate

Nglish: Translation of debate for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about debate

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