# debating

/dəˈbeɪtɪŋ/ (US) · /dɪbˈeɪtɪŋ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/debating
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. discussing formally

verb · CEFR B2

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

For teachers: 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.

Usage: Often used with the preposition 'whether' or 'the merits of'.

### 2. considering a choice

verb · CEFR B2

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

For teachers: 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.

Usage: Commonly followed by a 'whether' clause or a gerund.

### 3. the activity of debate

noun · CEFR B2

the activity or sport of formal public speaking and arguing.

For teachers: 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.

## Examples

- I am debating whether to go to the party or stay home.
- The committee spent the entire afternoon debating the merits of the new environmental policy before voting.
- While the board is currently debating the long-term feasibility of the merger, shareholders remain anxious about the potential for immediate dilution of their equity.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.