Synonyms for
Debates
Definition
a formal discussion on a particular topic in which opposing arguments are put forward
Synonyms & similar words
Synonyms by register
Informal
Literary
Antonyms
Common collocations
- heated debates
- public debates
- political debates
- formal debates
- open debates
- conduct debates
- engage in debates
- academic debates
Word family
Usage note
The word 'debates' refers to formal discussions or arguments on a particular topic. It often implies a structured exchange of opposing viewpoints.
Example sentences
- The presidential candidates had a debate on national television.
- My friends and I had a debate about which movie to watch.
- The scientists had a debate about the validity of the study.
- The students had a debate in their social studies class.
- The lawmakers had a debate about the new bill.
Quotes
The best way to win an argument is to begin by being right. - Jill Ruckleshaus
The most important thing in an argument, next to being right, is to leave an escape hatch for your opponent, so that he can gracefully swing over to your side without an embarrassing loss of face. - Sydney J. Harris
The art of argument is not a vicious one. It demands that you make common cause with the person you are disagreeing with, that you put yourself in his shoes and see the argument from his point of view. - David Brooks