DEBATE Synonyms: 175 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

debate 1 of 2

noun

di-ˈbāt

Definition of debate next

as in consideration

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

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Relevance

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short shrift

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

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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

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debate

2 of 2

verb

as in to ponder

to give serious and careful thought to still debating what to do

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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

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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

Examples 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

Wildlife cops had a decision to make Sept. 11, 2024 A video of Victor the Bear swiping at a woman’s leg and what happened next fueled a raging debate over humanity’s coexistence with wild animals, particularly those that inspire both awe and terror. —

Defne Karabatur, Los Angeles Times, 30 Dec. 2024 Biden dropped his reelection bid a few weeks after the debate and endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris, who lost the 2024 election to Trump. —

Asher Notheis, Washington Examiner - Political News and Conservative Analysis About Congress, the President, and the Federal Government, 30 Dec. 2024

Verb

The possibility of college football completely breaking away from the NCAA has been debated and opined about in the era of name, image and likeness and conference realignment. —

Ryan Gaydos, Fox News, 29 Dec. 2024 People can debate his presidency, but man, his post-presidency was unparalleled. —

Natalie Oganesyan, Deadline, 29 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for debate

Recent Examples of Synonyms for debate

Noun

As more tourists are concerned with treading more gently on the earth, sustainability is anticipated to become a bigger consideration.

Robin Raven, Forbes, 31 Dec. 2024
After Sasaki’s posting earlier in December, 20 teams submitted materials to Wasserman, his agency, for consideration regarding potential meetings.

Will Sammon, The Athletic, 30 Dec. 2024