debate
/dɪˈbeɪt/A formal discussion where two or more people argue opposite sides of a topic. Each side tries to persuade others that their view is correct. Debates often follow rules about speaking time and turn-taking.
- The students held a debate on whether social media is harmful.
- The presidential debate was watched by millions of viewers.
- There is ongoing debate about the best way to reduce pollution.
To argue or discuss a topic formally, with people taking different sides. It can also mean to think carefully about a decision before choosing.
- The parliament debated the new education policy for hours.
- She debated whether to accept the job offer abroad.
- Scientists continue to debate the causes of the disease.
Adinary Nuance
Debate sits in a cluster with discussion, argument, and dispute — but they are not freely interchangeable. A discussion is open and collaborative; nobody needs to "win." A debate is structured and oppositional — each side defends a fixed position, often formally. An argument can be spontaneous and emotional, while a debate is deliberate and rule-bound. A dispute stresses unresolved disagreement, often with friction, whereas a debate can end respectfully even when no one changes their mind. In academic and IELTS writing, "debate" signals intellectual seriousness and is strongly preferred over "argument" when describing scholarly or policy disagreements.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- Tranh luận
- Spanish
- Debate
- Chinese
- 辩论
- Japanese
- 討論
- Korean
- 토론
Etymology
From Old French "debatre" meaning to fight or beat down, rooted in Latin "battuere" (to beat). The word entered English around the 14th century, gradually shifting from physical conflict to structured intellectual argument.
Common phrases
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between 'debate' and 'discussion'?
- A discussion is a collaborative exchange where people share ideas without taking fixed sides. A debate is more formal and structured — each side defends a specific position and tries to persuade others. In a debate, there is usually a winner; in a discussion, the goal is shared understanding.
- Can I use 'debate' instead of 'argument' in IELTS essays?
- Yes, and it is often better. 'Debate' sounds more academic and neutral than 'argument,' which can imply personal conflict. Phrases like 'there is ongoing debate about...' or 'this issue is widely debated' are very common in IELTS and academic writing.
- Can 'debate' be used as a verb?
- Yes. You can say 'they debated the issue' (formal group discussion) or 'she debated what to do' (internal thinking about a choice). Both uses are common and correct.
- Is 'debate' formal or informal?
- 'Debate' leans formal or semi-formal. It fits naturally in academic essays, news articles, and speeches. In everyday casual speech, people more often say 'we argued about it' or 'we talked it over' rather than 'we debated it.'