debate
/dɪˈbeɪt/(noun)
AWL Sublist 4CEFR B2IELTS Band 7.0 - 9.0
Academic Definition
A formal discussion on a particular matter in a public meeting or legislative assembly; an argument between opposing viewpoints.
Key Academic Collocations
Click to copyWord Family & Derivatives
debatedebatabledebaterdebateddebating
Lexical Alternatives (Synonyms)
discussioncontroversydisputedeliberationpolemic
Academic Sample Sentences in Context
"The ethics of human genetic editing remain the subject of heated debate among bioethicists and international lawmakers."
"The bar chart reflects shifting voter allegiances following the televised prime-ministerial environmental debates."
"Recent extreme climatic anomalies have fueled the debate surrounding the urgency of mandatory fossil fuel phase-outs."
IELTS Examiner Scoring Strategy (Lexical Resource)
Use 'There has been considerable debate regarding whether...' as an introductory hook in Task 2 essays.