debate
Translation
debate, discussion, argument
Examples
The candidates had a heated debate.
The candidates had a heated debate.
There was much debate about the new law.
There was much debate about the new law.
Grammar Patterns
((a debate)) ((about/on sth.)) a discussion about a topic The class had a debate about climate change.
Similar Words
Synonyms: discussion, argument, dispute; Antonyms: agreement, consensus
Etymology
From Old French 'debatre' (to beat down), from 'de-' (down) + 'batre' (to beat). The idea is to 'beat down' opposing arguments.
Memory Tips
Imagine people 'beating' each other with words in a formal discussion.