1
as in consideration
a careful weighing of the reasons for or against something
after much debate, I decided to get the chocolate ice cream
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
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
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
3
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
Synonyms & Similar Words
1
as in to ponder
to give serious and careful thought to
still debating what to do
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
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
Synonyms & Similar Words
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of debate
Corky Siemaszko, NBC news, 10 Jan. 2026
This feature from the South Florida Sun Sentinel is part of a series of stories highlighting concerns in Palm Beach County’s Agricultural Reserve, a region where there’s long-standing debate over land preservation and growth.
—Abigail Hasebroock, Sun Sentinel, 10 Jan. 2026
Grace Miserocchi, Chicago Tribune, 10 Jan. 2026
The constant links to United’s heritage are much discussed and debated, especially among non-MUFC media and fans, but those bosses — some of them very experienced at the very highest level — can’t all have been wrong.
—Ian Irving, New York Times, 9 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for debate
Noun
Now, as Minneapolis reels from yet another tragedy making national headlines, Ross is at the center of debate over whether his actions during Wednesday’s confrontation were justified.
—Verb
Many Americans are debating whether the shooting was justified after videos taken by bystanders and cellphone footage from the officer were released, leading to protests around the country.
—Recent Examples of Synonyms for debate
Noun
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System stability remains a key design consideration.—
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March 20 — second 'funnel' deadline The second funnel deadline requires bills to advance further through the legislative process in order to remain eligible for consideration.—
Noun
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The controversy stemmed from an antitrust lawsuit against NASCAR filed by Jordan’s 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports, which argued the racing organization wasn’t properly sharing its revenue with the teams that compete in the sport’s top company.—
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Continue reading … AMERICAN CULTURE QUIZ – Test yourself on culinary controversies and presidential proclamations.—
Noun
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In the past two decades, much of the often spirited discussion has centered on Michael Jordan and four-time league MVP LeBron James.—
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As an iconic component of downtown infrastructure, the skyway network cannot be separated from broader discussions about the revitalization of downtown.—
Verb
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Take the time to ponder outdated habits or emotional scars.—
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Advertisement China has long pondered surgical strikes against Taiwan’s leadership, though any such move is likely to be self-defeating, given the island is a sustained democracy.—
Verb
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In response to questions from The Sacramento Bee, representatives from the governor’s office did not address any of the proposals lawmakers have been discussing.—
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Before the closed-door session on Wednesday, board members publicly discussed approving, funding, and conducting an investigation into Bulson and any other board member who was potentially involved in the April 2024 incident.—
Noun
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Georgia lawmakers and advocates have gathered at the state Capitol in Atlanta to begin months of discussions, deliberations, and votes for the 2026 legislative session.—
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While the footage has been admitted, jurors were instructed not to weigh it as evidence until deliberations.—
Noun
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Opening arguments in a Stanford felony vandalism case began Friday amid sharp disputes over whether political views tied to Israel’s war in Gaza should factor into the trial — an issue that has shaped the case from its earliest stages.—
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Police had initially said the shooting involved a family dispute but gave no specific details.—
Noun
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As a newcomer to composing and arranging for strings, Simon benefitted greatly by working with a group readily available for consultation and collaboration.—
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The Oscar-winning actor attributed much of his weight-loss transformation to completely removing gluten, a protein found naturally in grains including wheat, rye and barley, from his diet with the consultation of his doctor.—
Cite this Entry
“Debate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/debate. Accessed 13 Jan. 2026.
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