Debating Terminology

adverb a word or phrase that modifies or qualifies an adjective, verb, or other adverb, typically answering the questions how, when, where, why, or to what degree

conjunction a word used to connect clauses or sentences or to coordinate words in the same clause, such as 'although', 'and', 'but'

• Although she had studied hard, she did not pass the exam.
• I wanted to go to the party, although I had to work late.
• I know he said he would call, although I doubt he will.
• Although the storm was raging outside, she felt a sense of calm within.

adjective capable of being argued or debated; open to disagreement or dispute

• It is arguable whether the new policy will effectively address the issue.
• Some people argue that pineapple belongs on pizza, but it's arguable.
• I mean, it's arguable that he's the GOAT of basketball.
• The line between right and wrong can be arguable in certain situations.

verb to express a difference of opinion

preposition a word that shows the relationship between a noun or pronoun and other words in a sentence

• I must respectfully beg to differ with your interpretation of the data.
• I'm sorry, but I have to beg to differ on that point.
• Sorry, but I gotta say I beg to differ with you there.
• While I appreciate your perspective, I beg to differ in terms of our approach to the problem.

verb to prove (a person or an assertion) to be wrong; to refute conclusively

• The scientist was able to confute the theory proposed by his colleague using empirical evidence.
• I confuted my friend's argument by pointing out the flaws in his logic.
• I totally confuted her claim with solid proof.
• Her unwavering confidence confuted all doubts about her abilities.

verb to talk about (something) with another person or group in order to exchange ideas or reach a decision

• During the meeting, we will discuss the budget allocation for the upcoming project.
• Let's discuss what movie to watch this weekend.
• I need to discuss my crush with you, can we talk?
• The author's use of symbolism in the novel is something we can discuss further in class.

adjective disputatious - inclined to dispute or argue; fond of or causing heated arguments

• The disputatious nature of the debate made it difficult to reach a consensus.
• She's always so disputatious, always arguing about everything.
• I can't stand being around him, he's so damn disputatious all the time.
• The stormy weather matched the disputatious mood of the group.

verb To beat or hit repeatedly, to defeat decisively in a competition or contest

• The team was able to drub their opponents in the championship game.
• I heard that our soccer team is going to drub the other team this weekend.
• They really drubbed those guys in the basketball game last night.
• She always seems to drub her competition in any business venture.

adjective describing someone who speaks in a just and unbiased manner

• She was known for her fair spoken words during the negotiation.
• He always appreciated her fair spoken feedback.
• Her fair spoken attitude really impressed everyone.
• His fair spoken promises were like a breath of fresh air.

verb to deny or contradict a fact or statement

• It is difficult to gainsay the evidence presented by the prosecution.
• You can't gainsay the fact that she is a talented singer.
• I ain't gonna gainsay what you're saying, but I still disagree.
• His actions gainsay his words, showing his true intentions.

verb To speak at length or in a pompous manner, often in a public setting

• The professor held forth on the topic of quantum mechanics for over an hour.
• During dinner, Uncle Joe held forth about his latest fishing trip.
• At the party, Sarah was holding forth about her new favorite TV show.
• As the CEO, she held forth on the company's future direction during the board meeting.

verb to talk more or better than someone else in a conversation or discussion

• He was able to outtalk his opponent during the debate with logical arguments.
• She always manages to outtalk everyone in the group discussions.
• I bet I can outtalk you in a rap battle!
• His charisma and charm allowed him to effortlessly outtalk anyone he encountered.

noun A word that represents a person, place, thing, or idea, in this case 'persuasive' can also be used as a noun to refer to someone who is skilled at persuading others.

adjective A word that describes or modifies a noun or pronoun, in this case 'persuasive' describes something that is able to convince or influence others.

• The lawyer delivered a highly persuasive argument in court.
• She always knows how to make a persuasive case for getting what she wants.
• His pitch was so persuasive, I couldn't say no.
• The colors in the painting were so persuasive, they seemed to jump off the canvas.

verb to be balanced or held in a steady position

adjective having a composed and self-assured manner

• The company is poised for significant growth in the upcoming quarter.
• She looks poised to win the competition with her skills.
• He's always poised to party whenever there's an opportunity.
• The dancer was poised like a graceful swan on the stage.

verb to reply or respond in a conversation or argument

• After taking a brief break to gather his thoughts, he decided to rejoin the meeting.
• I'm going to grab a snack and then rejoin the group by the pool.
• I'll just finish this level of the game and then rejoin you guys in the chat.
• She needed some time alone to rejoin her sense of self before facing the challenges ahead.

adjective complete or thorough

adverb in a severe or thorough manner

• The board members roundly criticized the CEO for his poor decision-making.
• The team roundly booed the referee for making a bad call.
• She was roundly roasted on social media for her controversial tweet.
• Despite the criticism, he stood tall and faced it roundly.

verb to argue or worry about very small or unimportant details

• In legal matters, it is important not to split hairs when interpreting the law.
• Stop splitting hairs and just tell me what you really think.
• Don't split hairs over the small details, just get the job done.
• She always likes to split hairs and find faults in everything.