Synonyms for Debate (same or very similar meaning)
WordNet sense 1 (the formal presentation of and opposition to a stated proposition (usually followed by a vote)):
disputation, public debate
WordNet sense 2 (a discussion in which reasons are advanced for and against some proposition or proposal):
argument, argumentation
WordNet sense 3 (think about carefully; weigh):
consider, deliberate, moot, deliberate, turn over
WordNet sense 4 (have an argument about something):
argue, contend, fence
From the ODE community, based on WordNet
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