debate
Translation
discussion, argument, debate
Examples
There has been much debate on the topic.
There has been much debate on the topic.
The candidates had a televised debate.
The candidates had a televised debate.
Grammar Patterns
a debate on/about/over ((sth.)) a discussion about something There was a long debate on the new policy.
Similar Words
Synonyms: discussion, argument, dispute, controversy
Etymology
From Old French 'debatre', from 'de-' (down, completely) + 'batre' (to beat). The literal sense is 'to beat down'.
Memory Tips
Imagine two people trying to 'beat down' each other's arguments in a formal discussion.