What does "debated" mean?

1. (discussed formally) to have talked about something seriously, especially when people disagree. 2. (disputed or unsettled) describes a topic that people are still talking about because they do not agree on the answer.

How do you use "debated"?

Often used with 'whether' or 'the merits of'. Usually appears before the noun it modifies.

debated

v. · adj.

US //dəˈbeɪtɪd// UK //dɪbˈeɪtɪd// de·bat·ed

1 discussed formally (v.)
B2 Upper Intermediate

to have talked about something seriously, especially when people disagree.

the past tense of 'debate', referring to the act of engaging in a formal or structured argument about a specific topic.

Example

The committee debated the new rules for three hours before voting.

Example

The parliament debated the proposed environmental legislation at length, with representatives from both sides presenting detailed scientific evidence to support their claims.

Usage

Often used with 'whether' or 'the merits of'.
- discussed
- argued
- deliberated
- ignored
- neglected
2 disputed or unsettled (adj.)
B2 Upper Intermediate Academic

describes a topic that people are still talking about because they do not agree on the answer.

referring to a subject or proposition that is currently under discussion and has not reached a consensus.

Example

The cause of the accident is still a hotly debated topic in the news.

Example

The long-term impact of artificial intelligence on the labour market remains a much-debated issue among economists and social scientists.

Usage

Usually appears before the noun it modifies.