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debate
This word carries a strong sense of structured conflict. While a conversation is casual and a discussion is collaborative, a debate is adversarial. It implies a win-loss dynamic where the goal is to persuade an audience or a judge rather than to find a mutual compromise.
Countable when referring to a specific event or session, such as a televised presidential debate. Uncountable when referring to the general act or process of arguing a point.
Meanings
A formal discussion on a particular topic in a public meeting or legislative assembly, in which opposing arguments are put forward.
The candidates engaged in a heated debate over tax reform.
Examples
The candidates engaged in a heated debate over tax reform.
The committee will debate the proposed budget tomorrow.
The senate is still debating whether to pass the bill.
Phrasal Verbs
debate away
to spend a long time discussing a topic without reaching a conclusion
They debated away for hours without making any progress on the agreement.