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noun Uncommon

debating

Debating (noun) means the activity of taking part in formal debates. Example: “She joined the debating society in her first week at university.”

noun
1
The activity of taking part in formal debates.
"She joined the debating society in her first week at university."

How to use debating

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishThe skill or activity of arguing points formally, often as a competitive hobby.

Common pairings
a debating society debating skills competitive debating

Word forms

debatings plural

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She joined the _____ society in her first week at university.

Related words

Rhymes for debating

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Frequently asked questions

What does “debating” mean?

The word “debating” means the activity of taking part in formal debates. In plain terms, the skill or activity of arguing points formally, often as a competitive hobby.

How do you use “debating” in a sentence?

Here is “debating” used in a sentence: “She joined the debating society in her first week at university.”

What part of speech is “debating”?

“Debating” is a noun.

Is “debating” a common word?

“Debating” is an uncommon word in modern English.

What is the difference between debating and arguing?

Debating refers to the activity of taking part in formal debates, which follow structured rules and often aim to persuade an audience or judge on a specific proposition. Arguing is broader and more informal, describing any disagreement or exchange of opposing views without necessarily following a set format.

Is debating always a formal, organized activity?

Debating typically implies a structured, formal activity, such as a school or competitive debate, though the word is sometimes used more loosely to describe any back-and-forth discussion weighing opposing sides of an issue.

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