debating

v. talking about a serious topic where people have different ideas, often in a meeting or competition.

v. engaging in a formal discussion on a particular matter in a public meeting or legislative assembly, in which opposing arguments are put forward.

“The students are debating whether social media does more harm than good.”

“Parliament spent the entire afternoon debating the proposed changes to the environmental protection laws before moving to a final vote.”

v. thinking about two or more possibilities before making a final decision.

v. considering a matter in one's mind before reaching a decision; internal deliberation.

“I am still debating which car to buy for my long commute.”

“She spent several weeks debating whether to accept the promotion, weighing the increased salary against the loss of her flexible schedule.”

n. the activity or sport of formal public speaking and arguing.

n. the formal activity or competitive sport of presenting arguments for and against a specific motion.

“Joining the debating society helped him become a much more confident speaker.”

“The university has a long tradition of excellence in competitive debating, having won several national championships over the last decade.”