Debate Meaning and Definition
Debate
Pronunciation
/dɪˈbeɪt/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A debate is a formal discussion or argument between two or more people, typically with the goal of resolving a question or issue, often with opposing viewpoints or perspectives.
Examples
1. “The presidential candidates engaged in a heated debate on economic policy.”
2. “The class debate on climate change sparked a lively discussion among students.”
Synonyms
1. Argument
2. Discussion
3. Disputation
Antonyms
1. Agreement
2. Harmony
3. Unanimity
Additional Information
Debates can take many forms, including formal debates with structured rules and time limits, informal discussions, and even online forums. Debating is an essential skill in many areas of life, including education, politics, and business. It helps individuals develop critical thinking, public speaking, and argumentation skills.
Debates can be categorized into different types, such as persuasive debates, where the goal is to convince the audience of a particular point of view, and informative debates, where the goal is to educate the audience on a specific topic. Debates can also be structured around different formats, such as Lincoln-Douglas debates, parliamentary debates, or policy debates.
Debating has many benefits, including improving critical thinking, research skills, and public speaking abilities. It also helps individuals develop confidence, creativity, and problem-solving skills. Debating can be a fun and engaging way to learn about different topics and perspectives, and it can be a valuable tool for personal and professional growth.
Etymology
The word “debate” comes from the Old French word “debater,” which means “to dispute” or “to argue.” This word is derived from the Latin word “debattre,” which means “to fight” or “to contend.” The word “debate” has been used in the English language since the 14th century.
Usage Notes
When using the word “debate,” it’s essential to consider the context and the purpose of the discussion. In formal debates, it’s crucial to follow the rules and structure of the debate, while in informal discussions, the tone and language can be more relaxed. It’s also important to be respectful and open-minded when engaging in a debate, and to listen to opposing viewpoints.
Cultural References
Debates have been featured in many movies and TV shows, such as the “Lincoln-Douglas Debate” in the movie “Lincoln” or the TV show “The Colbert Report.” Debates have also been referenced in literature, such as in the book “The Great Debate” by Yuval Noah Harari.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
1. “To debate the merits of something” means to discuss and evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of a particular idea or proposal.
2. “To be up for debate” means to be open to discussion or argument.
Collocations
1. “To engage in a debate” means to participate in a formal or informal discussion.
2. “To win a debate” means to successfully argue one’s point of view.
Frequency of Use
The word “debate” is commonly used in formal and informal contexts, including education, politics, and business. It is a relatively frequent word in modern language, with a frequency of use of around 1.5 per 1,000 words.
Common Misspellings
1. “Debait”
2. “Debete”
3. “Debatte”