debate

/di-ˈbāt/

noun

  1. a contention by words or arguments : such, as

  2. a regulated discussion of a proposition between two matched sides

  3. the formal discussion of a motion before a deliberative body according to the rules of parliamentary procedure

the last presidential debate before the election

verb

  1. to argue about

  2. to engage (an opponent) in debate

  3. to turn over in one's mind : to think about (something, such as different options) in order to decide

the subject was hotly debated

a governor debating her challenger

discuss argue debate mean to discourse about in order to reach conclusions or to convince. discuss implies a sifting of possibilities especially by presenting considerations pro and con. argue implies the offering of reasons or evidence in support of convictions already held.

idiom

  1. being a matter about which people have different ideas and opinions

Whether or not the tax cuts benefit the poor is still a matter of debate.