This page in your language

فارسی

العربية

Deutsch

Español

Français

日本語

한국어

Português

中文

हिन्दी

Home
Learn
Danish
Vocabulary
debattere

B2 verb 14 min read

debattere

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips debattere in 30 Seconds

Explanation debattere in your Level:

At the A1 level, you don't really need the word 'debattere' yet. It's a big, formal word. Instead, you usually say 'tale om' (talk about) or 'snakke om' (chat about). However, you might see it on TV or in a newspaper. If you see 'debattere,' just think 'to talk about something important.' You might learn it as part of a list of verbs ending in -ere, which are usually easy because they look like English words. At this stage, you just need to recognize that it means people are having a serious conversation. You wouldn't use it to talk about your weekend or your family. You would only use it if you were trying to describe what politicians are doing on the news. Even then, 'de snakker' (they are talking) is enough for an A1 learner to get the message across.

At the A2 level, you are starting to talk more about society and the news. You might use 'debattere' to describe a school project or a news story you heard. You understand that it's more formal than 'snakke.' You can use it in simple sentences like 'Politikerne debatterer.' You are also learning that many Danish verbs come from Latin or French and end in -ere, just like 'studere' or 'interessere.' This makes 'debattere' easy to remember. You might start to notice the word 'debat' (a debate) as well. At this level, you are beginning to distinguish between casual talk and formal talk, and 'debattere' is your first tool for describing formal communication. You still might use 'diskutere' more often because it's a bit more common in everyday life.

At the B1 level, you should be able to use 'debattere' correctly in context. You understand that it's for formal situations, like at work or in a classroom. You can use it with the preposition 'om' (about) to say what the debate is about: 'Vi debatterede om miljøet.' You are also starting to use modal verbs with it, like 'vi skal debattere' (we must debate). You can describe the way people debate using simple adverbs like 'godt' (well) or 'meget' (a lot). You are becoming aware of the Danish culture of 'debat' and how important it is in the media. You might even participate in a small debate in your Danish class. You are moving beyond just recognizing the word to actually incorporating it into your active vocabulary for more serious topics.

At the B2 level, which is where this word is officially categorized, you should have a nuanced understanding of 'debattere.' You know the difference between 'debattere,' 'diskutere,' and 'drøfte.' You use 'debattere' when you want to sound professional or when you are talking about public issues. You can handle the passive form 'der debatteres' and you can use more complex adverbs like 'sagligt' (objectively) or 'hidsigt' (heatedly). You understand that 'debattere' implies a structure and a set of opposing viewpoints. You can write an essay or give a presentation where you use 'debattere' to describe the exchange of ideas in society. You are also comfortable with the word family, including 'en debattør' (a debater) and 'en debat' (a debate). This word is now a natural part of your academic and professional Danish.

At the C1 level, your use of 'debattere' is precise and effortless. You use it to navigate complex social and political discussions. You might use it metaphorically, such as 'at debattere med sig selv' (to debate with oneself) when making a difficult decision. You are aware of the historical and cultural weight the word carries in Denmark, specifically in relation to the 'folkehøjskole' tradition and the concept of 'samtaledemokrati' (deliberative democracy). You can spot when someone is using the word sarcastically or to elevate a trivial topic. You also know related but more obscure terms like 'polemisere' or 'parlamentere' and can choose the exact word that fits the tone you want to set. Your grammar is perfect, including the correct use of transitive and intransitive structures with the verb.

At the C2 level, 'debattere' is just one of many tools in your highly sophisticated linguistic toolkit. You use it with total native-like fluency, understanding every subtle connotation. You might use it in academic writing to critique the way a certain topic is 'debatteret i litteraturen' (debated in the literature). You understand the legal and parliamentary nuances of the word. You can participate in high-level public debates yourself, using the verb to frame your own contributions and to comment on the process of the debate itself. You are sensitive to the stylistic flow of a sentence and might choose 'debattere' over 'diskutere' purely for its rhythmic or formal qualities. At this level, you don't just use the word; you understand its role in shaping Danish public thought and identity.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

debattere in 30 Seconds

A formal verb meaning to discuss a topic thoroughly and officially.
Commonly used in politics, media, and academic settings in Denmark.
Follows regular -ere verb conjugation patterns (debatterer, debatterede).
Implies a structured exchange of opposing viewpoints rather than just a chat.

The Danish verb debattere translates primarily to the English verb 'to debate' or 'to discuss formally.' While in English, 'discussing' can be a casual conversation over coffee, in Danish, using debattere implies a structured exchange of opinions, often in a public, political, or academic setting. It suggests that there are differing viewpoints being presented with the intent of examining a topic from multiple angles. When you hear this word, you should immediately think of a podium, a moderator, and a set of rules for speaking. It is not just talking; it is the art of argumentation within a societal framework. This word is a cornerstone of Danish democratic culture, which places a high value on 'samtale' (conversation) and 'folkeoplysning' (public enlightenment). In Denmark, the ability to debattere respectfully is considered a vital civic skill, taught early in schools and practiced throughout adulthood in 'foreninger' (associations) and through various media outlets.

Formal Context: Used when politicians in the Folketinget (the Danish Parliament) deliberate on new legislation or policy changes. It implies a high level of decorum and specific turn-taking.

I aften skal politikerne debattere den nye klimaplan på landsdækkende tv.

Beyond politics, debattere is used in academic circles. Researchers might debattere a new theory at a conference. Here, the word emphasizes the intellectual rigor involved. It is about testing the validity of arguments rather than just expressing personal feelings. In a workplace, you might debattere a strategy, which sounds more serious and thorough than simply 'talking about' it. It suggests that the outcome of the discussion will have significant consequences for the company. The word carries a weight of responsibility; if you are invited to debattere, you are expected to have prepared your points and be ready to defend them against counterarguments.

Media Usage: Commonly found in newspaper headlines and television program titles, such as the famous DR show 'Debatten,' where current events are scrutinized by experts and public figures.

Vi har brug for at debattere etikken bag kunstig intelligens i vores samfund.

Culturally, Danes pride themselves on being 'debatlystne' (eager to debate). This doesn't mean they are argumentative in a negative sense, but rather that they value the 'fri debat' (free debate) as a pillar of their society. To debattere is to participate in the democratic process. It is the mechanism through which consensus is often reached, or at least where differences are clearly mapped out. When you learn to use this word, you are tapping into a deep-seated Danish value of transparency and public discourse. It is a word that commands respect for the process of communication itself.

Academic Register: In university settings, students are taught how to debattere scientifically, focusing on evidence, logic, and the critical evaluation of sources.

Studerende skal lære at debattere komplekse teorier uden at blive personlige.

Det er vigtigt, at vi kan debattere emnet på en saglig og konstruktiv måde.

In summary, debattere is more than just talking. It is a purposeful, structured, and often public form of communication. Whether it occurs in a classroom, a boardroom, or a television studio, it implies a commitment to the exchange of ideas and the rigorous examination of different perspectives. For an English speaker, it is best understood as the direct equivalent of 'to debate,' carrying with it all the formal and intellectual weight that the English word suggests.

Using debattere correctly involves understanding its grammatical structure and the prepositions that often accompany it. As a transitive verb, it can take a direct object—the topic being debated. However, it is very frequently used with the preposition om (about), which functions similarly to the English 'debate about' or 'debate on.' Understanding this flexibility is key to sounding natural in Danish. When you debatterer noget, you are putting that specific thing under the microscope. When you debatterer om noget, you are engaging in the activity of debating centered around that topic. The distinction is subtle but important for advanced learners.

Transitive Use: Directly following the verb with the noun. Example: 'De debatterer forslaget' (They are debating the proposal).

Panelet debatterede de økonomiske konsekvenser af reformen i flere timer.

The tense of the verb is also crucial. Like most Danish verbs ending in -ere, it follows a regular pattern: debatterer (present), debatterede (past), and har debatteret (present perfect). Because it is a verb of action and process, you will often find it paired with modal verbs to express necessity, possibility, or intention. For instance, 'vi bør debattere' (we ought to debate) or 'de vil debattere' (they want to debate). Using these combinations allows you to express more complex thoughts about the necessity of public discourse.

Prepositional Use: Using 'om' to specify the subject matter. Example: 'Vi debatterer om, hvorvidt skatten skal sænkes' (We are debating about whether taxes should be lowered).

Hvorfor skal vi altid debattere de samme emner hver eneste uge?

Another common construction involves the passive voice or the use of man (one/you). You might hear 'der debatteres' (there is being debated / it is being debated), which focuses on the activity itself rather than the people doing it. This is very common in news reporting. For example, 'I øjeblikket debatteres der livligt i medierne om den nye lov.' This construction adds a level of formality and abstraction, suggesting that the debate is a widespread social phenomenon.

Adverbial Modification: Commonly paired with adverbs like 'livligt' (lively), 'hidsigt' (heatedly), 'sagligt' (objectively), or 'offentligt' (publicly).

De to eksperter debatterede hidsigt, men de forblev professionelle hele vejen igennem.

Vi har debatteret dette spørgsmål i årevis uden at finde en løsning.

Finally, pay attention to how debattere interacts with subordinate clauses starting with om or hvorvidt (whether). These clauses function as the object of the debate. For example, 'De debatterer, om skolen skal lukke.' This is a very efficient way to express the core conflict or question at the heart of the discussion. Mastering these patterns will allow you to participate in or describe complex Danish discussions with confidence and precision.

In Denmark, you will encounter the word debattere in a variety of high-stakes environments. The most prominent place is in the national media. Denmark has a very strong tradition of public service broadcasting, and programs like 'Debatten' on DR2 are cultural touchstones. In these shows, the host will often open by saying, 'I aften skal vi debattere...' followed by a topic like healthcare, immigration, or the environment. Here, the word signals a transition from reporting facts to exploring opinions and policy implications. If you are watching the news (TV2 News or DR Nyheder), you will frequently hear journalists report that 'parterne nu debatterer en mulig løsning,' suggesting that negotiations have reached a stage of formal discussion.

Political Arenas: The Folketinget is the primary site for this verb. Parliamentary proceedings are often summarized with phrases like 'lovforslaget blev debatteret i førstebehandlingen.'

Man kan høre politikerne debattere i salen hele dagen lang på tv-kanalen Folketinget.

Another significant location for this word is the 'Folkemødet' (The People's Meeting) on the island of Bornholm. This annual event is a massive festival of democracy where politicians, NGOs, business leaders, and ordinary citizens gather to debattere the future of society. In this context, the word takes on a more inclusive and accessible meaning, though it remains formal in its structure. You will see signs everywhere saying 'Kom og debattér med os!' (Come and debate with us!). This highlights the Danish belief that everyone should have a voice in the public square. If you attend a 'højskole' (folk high school), debattere will be a daily activity, as these institutions are built on the principle of 'det levende ord' (the living word).

Educational Institutions: From primary school to university, students are encouraged to debattere. It is a core part of the 'samfundsfag' (social studies) curriculum.

I skolen lærte vi at debattere ved at lytte til modpartens argumenter først.

In the digital sphere, you will see debattere used on social media platforms and in the comments sections of newspapers like Politiken, Berlingske, or Jyllands-Posten. While the quality of online discussion can vary, the intent is often framed as 'at debattere.' You might see a moderator intervene with a comment like 'Lad os venligst debattere emnet og ikke hinanden' (Please let's debate the topic and not each other). This reflects the social norm of 'saglighed'—staying objective and focused on the matter at hand. Whether in a physical meeting or a virtual forum, debattere is the verb of choice for anyone wishing to engage in the serious exchange of ideas.

Workplace Meetings: In professional settings, a manager might say, 'Vi skal debattere vores nye strategi på mandag,' indicating a formal meeting where input is expected.

Bestyrelsen har valgt at debattere budgettet bag lukkede døre.

Det er altid spændende at se eksperter debattere på konferencen.

Ultimately, debattere is ubiquitous in Danish life because the culture values the process of reaching a conclusion as much as the conclusion itself. Hearing the word is a signal that you are entering a space where ideas are meant to be challenged, defended, and refined. It is the sound of a society working through its problems out loud.

One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make when using debattere is confusing it with the English 'argue.' In English, 'argue' can mean both 'to present a logical case' and 'to have a verbal fight.' In Danish, debattere almost exclusively refers to the former. If you use debattere to describe a heated, emotional fight with your partner, it will sound very strange and overly formal—almost as if you are having a parliamentary session in your kitchen. For personal arguments, the correct verb is at skændes. Another pitfall is the preposition usage. While you can debattere om noget, you should avoid using other English-influenced prepositions like 'over' or 'mod' unless the specific context requires them for other reasons.

The 'Skændes' vs. 'Debattere' Trap: Don't say 'Jeg debatterede med min kone om opvasken' unless it was a formal, structured discussion with opening statements and a moderator. Use 'skændtes' for a fight.

I stedet for at skændes, burde vi debattere problemet sagligt.

Another common error involves the misuse of the word diskutere. While often synonyms, diskutere is broader. You can 'diskutere' what to have for dinner, but you wouldn't typically 'debattere' it unless it was a major family decision involving multiple stakeholders and formal arguments. Using debattere for trivial matters can come across as sarcastic or pompous. Furthermore, learners sometimes forget that debattere is a transitive verb. You don't always need a preposition. Saying 'Vi debatterer emnet' is perfectly correct and often more direct than 'Vi debatterer om emnet.'

Preposition Overuse: Avoid adding 'om' every single time. Sometimes the direct object is cleaner. Correct: 'De debatterer loven.' Also correct: 'De debatterer om loven.'

Mange udlændinge glemmer, at man ikke kan debattere småting uden at lyde mærkelig.

A subtle mistake is the confusion between debattere and argumentere. While you debatterer a topic (the whole process), you argumenterer for or imod a specific point (the individual action). You cannot 'debattere for en sag' in the same way you 'argumenterer for en sag.' The debate is the forum; the argument is the tool used within that forum. Keeping these distinct will greatly improve your precision in B2-level Danish. Finally, remember that debattere requires at least two viewpoints, even if only one person is speaking (e.g., 'han debatterede med sig selv'). If there is no conflict of ideas, it is likely just a 'redegørelse' (explanation) or 'præsentation' (presentation).

Register Errors: Using 'debattere' in a very informal slang-heavy conversation might sound out of place. Stick to 'snakke om' or 'diskutere' with friends.

Vi skal ikke bare snakke, vi skal debattere de svære valg.

Det er en fejl at tro, at man kan debattere uden at lytte til andre.

By avoiding these common traps—confusing it with fighting, overusing prepositions, or applying it to trivial matters—you will use debattere with the nuance and authority expected of a high-level Danish speaker. It is a word that, when used correctly, signals your integration into the Danish tradition of thoughtful, public conversation.

Danish has several words that overlap with debattere, each with its own specific nuance. Understanding these alternatives will help you choose the right word for the right situation. The most common alternative is diskutere. While debattere is formal and often public, diskutere is the workhorse of Danish conversation. You can diskutere anything from a film you just saw to the national budget. It is more versatile and less formal than debattere. If you want to sound more casual, diskutere is usually the safer bet.

Diskutere vs. Debattere: Diskutere: General discussion, can be casual or formal. Debattere: Specifically formal, structured, often involving public interest or opposing sides.

Vi kan diskutere filmen over en øl, men vi skal debattere kulturpolitikken i aften.

Another important alternative is drøfte. This word is very common in professional and administrative contexts. It means 'to deliberate' or 'to talk through' something thoroughly. It is less about opposing sides and more about exploring a topic together to reach a decision. If a board of directors is meeting, they are more likely to drøfte a proposal than to debattere it, unless they are in deep disagreement. Drøfte implies a collaborative effort to understand all facets of an issue.

Drøfte: Focuses on thoroughness and deliberation. Often used in meetings (e.g., 'Vi skal drøfte dagsordenen').

Ledergruppen mødtes for at drøfte de nye retningslinjer for hjemmearbejde.

For more specialized contexts, you might encounter polemisere or parlamentere. Polemisere means to engage in a 'polemic'—a strong, often aggressive verbal or written attack on someone else's opinions. It is more confrontational than debattere. Parlamentere is rarer and usually refers to negotiations, often between opposing sides in a conflict (historically in a military sense, but sometimes used metaphorically). Finally, there is at tvistes, which means to be in a dispute or to wrangle over something, often used in legal or formal contexts where there is a clear disagreement over facts or rights.

Polemisere vs. Debattere: Polemisere: Aggressive, critical, and often one-sided. Debattere: Structured, reciprocal, and ideally objective.

Han valgte at polemisere mod regeringens politik i sit seneste læserbrev.

Lad os ikke tvistes om detaljerne, før vi har styr på de store linjer.

Choosing between debattere, diskutere, and drøfte is a hallmark of a B2/C1 learner. By selecting the word that fits the level of formality and the goal of the conversation, you demonstrate a deep understanding of Danish social dynamics and professional etiquette.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

Neutral

Informal

Child friendly

Slang

Fun Fact

Despite its combative origins ('beating down'), the modern Danish sense of 'debattere' is one of the most civilized and constructive forms of interaction in society. It shows how language can transform physical conflict into intellectual progress.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /debaˈtɛːɐ/

US /deɪbəˈtɛrə/

The primary stress is on the second syllable: de-BAT-tere.

Rhymes With

studere interessere notere kopiere fungere levere placere vurdere

Common Errors

Pronouncing the final 'r' too strongly like in English 'teacher'.
Putting the stress on the first syllable.
Making the 'd' sound too hard (like a 't').
Pronouncing the 'e' in 'de-' as a long 'ee' sound.
Failing to aspirate the 't' in the middle.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Easy to recognize due to its similarity to the English word 'debate'.

Writing 3/5

Requires knowledge of -ere verb endings and correct preposition use.

Speaking 4/5

The Danish '-ere' ending and the soft 'd' can be tricky for English speakers.

Listening 3/5

Usually clear in formal speech, but can be mumbled in casual conversation.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

tale snakke mening spørgsmål svar

Learn Next

diskutere drøfte argumentere konkludere overbevise

Advanced

polemisere parlamentere procedere ræsonnere problematisere

Grammar to Know

-ere verbs in Danish

debattere, studere, interessere - all follow the same pattern.

Transitive vs. Intransitive Verbs

Jeg debatterer emnet (transitive) vs. Jeg debatterer om emnet (intransitive).

The Passive Voice with -es

Der debatteres (It is being debated).

Modal Verbs with Infinitives

Vi skal debattere (We must/shall debate).

Adverb Placement

De debatterer *ofte* (They often debate).

Examples by Level

De to mænd debatterer.

The two men are debating.

Simple present tense of a regular -ere verb.

Vi skal debattere i skolen.

We are going to debate in school.

Modal verb 'skal' + infinitive 'debattere'.

Hvad debatterer de om?

What are they debating about?

Question form with the preposition 'om'.

De debatterer politik.

They are debating politics.

Transitive use without a preposition.

Kan vi debattere dette emne?

Can we debate this topic?

Modal verb 'kan' + infinitive.

De debatterede i går.

They debated yesterday.

Past tense ending in -ede.

Jeg kan lide at debattere.

I like to debate.

Infinitive after 'at'.

Hvorfor debatterer du?

Why are you debating?

Simple question in present tense.

Politikerne debatterer den nye lov.

The politicians are debating the new law.

Transitive verb with a direct object.

De debatterer om, hvem der skal vinde.

They are debating about who should win.

Using 'om' followed by a subordinate clause.

Vi har debatteret emnet før.

We have debated the topic before.

Present perfect tense with 'har'.

Det er vigtigt at debattere miljøet.

It is important to debate the environment.

Impersonal construction 'Det er vigtigt at...'.

De debatterede i mange timer.

They debated for many hours.

Past tense with a duration adverbial.

Hun elsker at debattere med sine venner.

She loves to debate with her friends.

Infinitive with the preposition 'med'.

Hvem skal debattere i aften?

Who is going to debate tonight?

Future meaning using 'skal'.

De debatterer ofte i fjernsynet.

They often debate on television.

Present tense with the frequency adverb 'ofte'.

Vi bør debattere, hvordan vi bruger vores penge.

We ought to debate how we use our money.

Modal verb 'bør' expressing recommendation.

Det er sundt for et demokrati at debattere.

It is healthy for a democracy to debate.

Infinitive as part of a complex subject.

De debatterede ivrigt under hele mødet.

They debated eagerly during the whole meeting.

Use of the adverb 'ivrigt' (eagerly).

Jeg vil gerne debattere dette forslag med dig.

I would like to debate this proposal with you.

Polite request using 'vil gerne'.

De har debatteret spørgsmålet i flere uger nu.

They have been debating the question for several weeks now.

Present perfect for an ongoing action.

Man kan ikke debattere uden gode argumenter.

One cannot debate without good arguments.

Generic subject 'man'.

De debatterede, om skolen skulle lukkes eller ej.

They debated whether the school should be closed or not.

Subordinate clause with 'om... eller ej'.

Det nytter ikke noget bare at debattere.

It doesn't help just to debate.

Phrase 'Det nytter ikke noget' + infinitive.

Panelet debatterede de etiske dilemmaer ved teknologien.

The panel debated the ethical dilemmas of the technology.

Formal register with complex nouns.

Der debatteres livligt om den nye skattereform.

There is a lively debate about the new tax reform.

Passive voice 'debatteres' with 'der' as formal subject.

Det er nødvendigt at debattere emnet på et sagligt grundlag.

It is necessary to debate the topic on an objective basis.

Adverbial phrase 'på et sagligt grundlag'.

De valgte at debattere forslaget punkt for punkt.

They chose to debate the proposal point by point.

Idiomatic expression 'punkt for punkt'.

Han er kendt for at debattere meget hidsigt.

He is known for debating very heatedly.

Adjective 'kendt for' + infinitive.

Vi må debattere, hvad konsekvenserne vil være på lang sigt.

We must debate what the consequences will be in the long run.

Modal verb 'må' expressing necessity.

De debatterede længe, før de nåede til enighed.

They debated for a long time before they reached an agreement.

Conjunction 'før' connecting two clauses.

Det er spændende at se eksperter debattere komplekse emner.

It is exciting to see experts debate complex topics.

Accusative with infinitive construction 'se nogen gøre noget'.

Artiklen debatterer forholdet mellem magt og moral.

The article debates the relationship between power and morality.

Metaphorical use where an inanimate object is the subject.

Man kan debattere, hvorvidt denne metode er den mest effektive.

One can debate whether this method is the most effective.

Formal use of 'hvorvidt' (whether).

De debatterede indgående de filosofiske implikationer af fundet.

They debated in depth the philosophical implications of the discovery.

Advanced adverb 'indgående' (in-depth).

Spørgsmålet bliver stadig debatteret i akademiske kredse.

The question is still being debated in academic circles.

Passive voice with 'bliver' for ongoing process.

Det er ikke min hensigt at debattere din personlige overbevisning.

It is not my intention to debate your personal conviction.

Formal noun 'hensigt' (intention).

Vi må debattere emnet uden at forfalde til populisme.

We must debate the topic without lapsing into populism.

Gerund-like construction 'uden at' + infinitive.

Han debatterede med stor viden og veltalenhed.

He debated with great knowledge and eloquence.

Prepositional phrase describing manner.

Der er ingen grund til at debattere det åbenlyse.

There is no reason to debate the obvious.

Substantive use of the adjective 'det åbenlyse'.

Værket debatterer de ontologiske forudsætninger for menneskelig handlen.

The work debates the ontological prerequisites for human action.

Highly academic and abstract vocabulary.

Hvorvidt dette overhovedet lader sig debattere, er et åbent spørgsmål.

Whether this can be debated at all is an open question.

Reflexive passive construction 'lader sig debattere'.

De debatterede med en skarphed, der grænsede til det fjendtlige.

They debated with a sharpness that bordered on the hostile.

Relative clause adding precise nuance.

Lovforslagets ordlyd blev debatteret ned til mindste detalje.

The wording of the bill was debated down to the smallest detail.

Compound noun 'lovforslagets' and passive 'blev debatteret'.

Han formåede at debattere emnet fra et helt nyt perspektiv.

He managed to debate the topic from an entirely new perspective.

Verb 'formåede' (managed/was able) + infinitive.

At debattere for debattens skyld fører sjældent til noget konstruktivt.

Debating for the sake of the debate rarely leads to anything constructive.

Infinitive as a noun phrase subject.

Det er i dette forum, at de mest kontroversielle ideer debatteres.

It is in this forum that the most controversial ideas are debated.

Cleft sentence 'Det er... at...' for emphasis.

De debatterede ihærdigt, men uden at nå frem til en konklusion.

They debated persistently, but without reaching a conclusion.

Advanced adverb 'ihærdigt' (persistently/strenuously).

Common Collocations

debattere ivrigt

debattere længe

debattere et forslag

debattere offentligt

debattere hidsigt

debattere indgående

debattere i Folketinget

debattere sagligt

debattere om fremtiden

debattere et emne

Common Phrases

at debattere på et oplyst grundlag

— To debate based on informed knowledge. This is a common phrase in Danish public discourse.

Vi må sørge for, at vi debatterer på et oplyst grundlag.

at debattere for åbne tæpper

— To debate openly or in public view. It implies transparency.

Sagen skal debatteres for åbne tæpper.

at debattere bag lukkede døre

— To debate in secret or in a private meeting. The opposite of 'åbne tæpper'.

Bestyrelsen valgte at debattere bag lukkede døre.

at debattere stolpe op og stolpe ned

— To debate something endlessly or very thoroughly. An idiomatic way to say 'at length'.

De debatterede emnet stolpe op og stolpe ned.

at debattere til den lyse morgen

— To debate until sunrise. Implies a very long and passionate discussion.

De debatterede til den lyse morgen.

at debattere med sig selv

— To weigh the pros and cons in one's own mind. To be in two minds.

Jeg har debatteret med mig selv, om jeg skal tage jobbet.

at debattere emnet ihjel

— To over-debate something until it's no longer useful or interesting.

Vi skal passe på ikke at debattere emnet ihjel.

en livlig debatteren

— A lively state of debating. Using the gerund-like form.

Der var en livlig debatteren i krogene.

klar til at debattere

— Ready to debate. Used when someone is prepared for a discussion.

Er du klar til at debattere i aften?

lad os debattere

— Let us debate. A common call to action in meetings or shows.

Lad os debattere løsningsmodellerne.

Often Confused With

debattere vs skændes

Don't use 'debattere' for a personal fight. 'Skændes' is for arguing/fighting emotionally.

debattere vs diskutere

While similar, 'diskutere' is more common and less formal than 'debattere'.

debattere vs argumentere

You 'debattere' a topic (the whole process), but you 'argumentere' for a point (the action).

Idioms & Expressions

"at debattere om kejserens skæg"

— To debate about something trivial or unimportant. Literally 'the emperor's beard'.

Vi spilder tiden med at debattere om kejserens skæg.

informal/idiomatic

"at debattere med korslagte arme"

— To debate with a defensive or closed-minded attitude. Literally 'with crossed arms'.

Det er svært at nå frem til noget, når de debatterer med korslagte arme.

neutral

"at debattere så det brager"

— To debate very loudly or intensely. Literally 'so it crashes/thunders'.

De debatterede, så det bragede i hele huset.

informal

"at debattere i øst og vest"

— To debate in a disorganized way, covering many unrelated topics. Literally 'in east and west'.

Debatten kørte i øst og vest uden fokus.

informal

"at debattere på kanten"

— To debate something that is controversial or near the limit of what is acceptable. Literally 'on the edge'.

Nogle gange debatterer han lige på kanten af det tilladte.

neutral

"at debattere for galleriet"

— To debate just to impress an audience rather than to find a solution. Literally 'for the gallery'.

Politikerne debatterer ofte kun for galleriet.

neutral

"at debattere med fløjlshandsker"

— To debate very gently or carefully to avoid offending anyone. Literally 'with velvet gloves'.

Man kan ikke debattere så svære emner med fløjlshandsker.

neutral

"at debattere med kniven på struben"

— To debate under extreme pressure or threat. Literally 'with the knife at the throat'.

De debatterede budgettet med kniven på struben.

informal

"at debattere i blinde"

— To debate without having the necessary facts. Literally 'in the blind'.

Vi kan ikke debattere i blinde uden de rigtige tal.

neutral

"at debattere med hjertet"

— To debate with passion and emotion. Literally 'with the heart'.

Hun debatterer altid med hjertet, hvilket gør hende meget troværdig.

neutral

Easily Confused

debattere vs diskutere

They both mean 'to discuss' in English.

'Diskutere' is a general term for any discussion. 'Debattere' implies a formal, often public, exchange of opposing arguments.

Vi diskuterede filmen, men politikerne debatterede loven.

debattere vs skændes

English 'argue' covers both.

'Skændes' is an emotional, often loud disagreement (a fight). 'Debattere' is a logical, structured discussion.

Børnene skændes om legetøjet, mens forældrene debatterer opdragelse.

debattere vs drøfte

Both are formal.

'Drøfte' is about collaborative deliberation to reach a decision. 'Debattere' is about presenting opposing views.

Vi drøftede dagsordenen, men debatterede det kontroversielle punkt.

debattere vs tale

Both involve speaking.

'Tale' is the general act of speaking. 'Debattere' is a specific, purposeful type of speaking.

Han talte længe, men han debatterede aldrig rigtigt emnet.

debattere vs polemisere

Both involve arguing.

'Polemisere' is much more aggressive and critical, often one-sided. 'Debattere' is more balanced.

I stedet for at debattere sagligt, valgte han at polemisere mod sin modstander.

Sentence Patterns

Jeg [verb] [noun].

Jeg debatterer politik.

Vi skal [verb] om [noun].

Vi skal debattere om skolen.

Det er [adjective] at [verb].

Det er vigtigt at debattere.

De [verb] [adverb], da de [verb].

De debatterede ivrigt, da de mødtes.

Hvorvidt [clause], debatteres ofte.

Hvorvidt dette er sandt, debatteres ofte.

At [verb] [noun] kræver [noun].

At debattere emnet kræver stor indsigt.

Man kan [verb] [noun].

Man kan debattere forslaget.

Der [verb] om [noun].

Der debatteres om fremtiden.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

High in formal, media, and academic contexts; medium in daily life.

Common Mistakes

Using 'debattere' for a domestic argument. → skændes
'Debattere' is formal and structured. Using it for a fight with your spouse sounds like you're in a courtroom.
Adding 'over' as a preposition (English influence). → debattere om / debattere (direct object)
In English, we 'debate over' something. In Danish, we 'debatterer om' something or just 'debatterer' something.
Pronouncing the first syllable with an 'ee' sound. → Short 'e' sound (/de/).
The 'de-' in 'debattere' is short and clipped, not long like 'deep'.
Using 'debattere' when you mean 'to explain' (redegøre). → redegøre / forklare
'Debattere' requires multiple viewpoints. If you're just explaining one side, use 'forklare' or 'redegøre'.
Forgetting the -r in the present tense. → debatterer
Like all Danish verbs, you must add -r for the present tense. 'Jeg debattere' is incorrect.

Tips

Regular -ere Ending

Remember that almost all Danish verbs ending in -ere are regular. This makes 'debattere' very easy to conjugate once you know the pattern.

The Art of Listening

In a Danish debate, listening is just as important as speaking. Use the verb 'debattere' to describe a process where everyone gets a chance to be heard.

Use with Adverbs

To sound like a pro, pair 'debattere' with adverbs like 'sagligt' (objectively) or 'grundigt' (thoroughly). This adds depth to your descriptions.

Passive Voice for News

When summarizing news, use the passive 'debatteres.' For example: 'Lige nu debatteres det, om skatten skal op.' It sounds very natural and journalistic.

Debat vs. Skænderi

If things get too emotional, it's no longer a 'debat,' it's a 'skænderi.' Use 'debattere' only as long as the conversation remains constructive.

Citing Sources

In university papers, use 'debattere' to describe how different authors interact with a theory. It shows you understand academic discourse.

Watch 'Debatten'

The best way to see the verb in action is to watch the show 'Debatten' on DR. It will give you a great sense of the rhythm and tone of Danish debate.

The Silent 'R'

Don't stress the final 'r' in 'debattere.' It should be a soft, breathy sound that blends into the next word.

Workplace Deliberation

If you want to suggest a serious discussion at work, say 'Vi har brug for at debattere dette.' It sounds more professional than 'Vi skal snakke om det.'

Online Forums

On Danish websites, look for the 'Debat' section. It's a great place to see how people use the verb and noun in written form.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a 'DEBATE' that is 'TERRE-ific.' It sounds like the English word 'debate' with 'tere' added at the end. Just remember that in Danish, we add '-ere' to make many verbs formal.

Visual Association

Imagine a podium with two people. On the podium, the word 'DEBAT' is written. They are 'TERRE-ing' (tearing) apart a problem to see what's inside.

Word Web

Politik Argument Møde Fjernsyn Skole Mening Tale Lytning

Challenge

Try to use 'debattere' in three different contexts today: once about a news story, once about a decision at work, and once when talking about a book or movie.

Word Origin

The word comes from the French 'débattre,' which itself is derived from the Old French 'dis-' (apart) and 'battre' (to beat). Ultimately, it traces back to the Latin 'debattuere,' meaning to beat down or fight.

Original meaning: To beat down or to fight in a physical sense, which later evolved into a metaphorical 'fight' with words.

Indo-European -> Latin -> Romance (French) -> Germanic (Danish loanword).

Cultural Context

Be careful not to 'debattere' personal or sensitive issues in a way that seems too cold or academic, as it can come across as lacking empathy.

While English speakers might find 'debate' a bit confrontational, Danes see 'debattere' as a healthy and necessary part of consensus-building. It is less about winning and more about the process.

Clement Kjersgaard (famous host of 'Debatten' on DR) N.F.S. Grundtvig (philosopher of public debate) Folkemødet på Bornholm (the ultimate site for debating)

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Politics

debattere i salen
debattere et lovforslag
debattere på tv
en politisk debat

Education

lære at debattere
debattere i timerne
et debatemne
debattere en tekst

Work

debattere strategien
debattere på et møde
debattere budgettet
debattere løsninger

Media

et debatprogram
et debatindlæg
debattere i avisen
den offentlige debat

Personal Growth

debattere med sig selv
debattere værdier
en indre debat
debattere livets mening

Conversation Starters

"Hvilket emne kunne du godt tænke dig at debattere i dag?"

"Synes du, det er vigtigt at debattere politik i skolen?"

"Hvor ofte ser du folk debattere i fjernsynet?"

"Er der noget, vi aldrig burde debattere offentligt?"

"Hvordan lærer man bedst at debattere på en god måde?"

Journal Prompts

Skriv om en gang, hvor du debatterede noget vigtigt med en ven. Hvad lærte du af det?

Hvad er fordelene og ulemperne ved at debattere alt på sociale medier?

Beskriv en politisk debat, du har set for nylig. Var den saglig eller hidsig?

Hvis du skulle debattere med en berømt person, hvem skulle det være og hvorfor?

Hvorfor er evnen til at debattere vigtig for et velfungerende demokrati?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No, while very common in politics, you can debattere any serious topic in school, at work, or even in a formal family meeting. It just implies a certain level of structure and seriousness.

You can, but it might sound a bit formal or even sarcastic if you are just talking about something minor. 'Diskutere' or 'snakke om' is usually better for friends.

Both are correct. 'Debattere emnet' (transitive) is direct, while 'debattere om emnet' (intransitive) focuses more on the activity of debating. In many cases, they are interchangeable.

It is a regular verb: debattere (infinitive), debatterer (present), debatterede (past), har debatteret (present perfect).

Yes, 'en debat' is the noun for 'a debate.' A person who debates is 'en debattør.'

Yes, especially if you read newspapers, watch the news, or work in a professional environment in Denmark.

Yes, 'der debatteres' is very common in news reports to say 'it is being debated' or 'there is a debate going on.'

Usually, yes. It implies that there are different points of view that need to be explored and compared.

It is a short article or letter to the editor in a newspaper where someone presents their opinion to start or join a debate.

Only in the sense of 'to present arguments.' If you mean 'to fight,' the Danish word is 'skændes.'