Debattera

Debattera is a Swedish verb meaning to engage in a debate—presenting and arguing opposing viewpoints on a topic, often with the aim of persuading an audience. The related noun debatt denotes a debate. The term is widely used in politics, education, media, and everyday discussion. It derives from the noun debatt (debate), which in turn comes from French débattre and débat.

Usage and forms: Debattera something, or simply to debate. Typical constructions include debattera en fråga (to debate a question). Verb forms are debatterar (present), debatterade (past), debatterat (supine), and the imperative is debattera. Related words include debatt (debate), debattör (debater), and debattklimat (debate climate).

Structure and style: Formal debates often follow a sequence of opening statements, presentation of arguments, rebuttals, and closing statements, with emphasis on evidence and logical reasoning. Informal debates may focus more on opinion and rhetoric. Etiquette emphasizes respect, clarity, and credible sourcing, while avoiding fallacies. Debattera implies a contest of ideas intended to influence others, distinguishing it from discuss or överväga, which are broader and less contest-oriented.

Examples: Politiker debatterade lagförslaget i riksdagen. Skolor debatterar olika synpunkter i sina klassrum. Medieprogram diskuterar aktuella frågor där olika röster får komma till tals.

See also: debatt, debattör, debattklimat. In Swedish public life, debattera plays a central role in legislative sessions, media interviews, and educational settings.