Learn English Vocabulary

10 Phrasal verbs used in a debate

Phrasal Verb Meaning Examples
Speak out To express one's opinions or beliefs openly and forcefully
  • She spoke out against the proposed policy changes.
  • He spoke out in favor of stricter environmental regulations.
  • They spoke out about the need for better healthcare access.
  • We should speak out against discrimination and injustice.
  • Let's encourage everyone to speak out on issues that matter to them.
Counter argue To present arguments in opposition to someone else's arguments
  • She counter argued every point made by her opponent.
  • He counter argued that the proposed solution was impractical.
  • They counter argued with evidence from reputable sources.
  • We should counter argue with logic and reasoning.
  • Let's prepare to counter argue any objections raised during the debate.
Back up To support or provide evidence for one's argument
  • She backed up her claims with data from recent studies.
  • He backed up his argument with quotes from experts in the field.
  • They backed up their position with historical examples.
  • We should back up our assertions with concrete evidence.
  • Let's make sure to back up our arguments with solid facts.
Rebuttal To offer arguments or evidence in opposition to a claim or assertion
  • She delivered a strong rebuttal to her opponent's accusations.
  • He presented a compelling rebuttal to the criticism of his proposal.
  • They offered a detailed rebuttal to the opposing team's arguments.
  • We should anticipate potential rebuttals and prepare counterarguments.
  • Let's listen carefully to the rebuttals and respond accordingly.
Make a point To express an opinion or argument clearly and convincingly
  • She made a strong point about the importance of education.
  • He made several valid points during the course of the debate.
  • They made the point that social media has a significant impact on society.
  • We should make a point to address any misconceptions or misunderstandings.
  • Let's make our points succinctly and effectively.
Argue against To present reasons or evidence opposing a particular viewpoint or proposal
  • She argued against the implementation of new taxes.
  • He argued against the use of animals in scientific experiments.
  • They argued against the proposed changes to the healthcare system.
  • We should argue against any policies that may harm the environment.
  • Let's prepare to argue against any objections raised during the debate.
Speak up To voice one's opinion or perspective loudly and clearly
  • She spoke up when she disagreed with the speaker.
  • He spoke up in defense of his team's proposal.
  • They spoke up against the unfair treatment of minority groups.
  • We should speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves.
  • Let's encourage everyone to speak up during the debate.
Sum up To give a brief overview or conclusion of the main points
  • She summed up the key arguments presented in the debate.
  • He summed up the findings of the research study.
  • They summed up the discussion with a call to action.
  • We should sum up our position before concluding the debate.
  • Let's sum up the main points for clarity and emphasis.
Concede To admit or acknowledge the validity of an opponent's argument
  • She conceded defeat after realizing she couldn't counter the argument.
  • He conceded that there were flaws in his proposal.
  • They conceded that their opponents had made some valid points.
  • We should be willing to concede when presented with convincing evidence.
  • Let's concede gracefully and focus on finding common ground.
Stick to To adhere firmly to a particular opinion, belief, or course of action
  • She stuck to her argument despite the criticism from her opponents.
  • He stuck to his principles even when facing pressure to compromise.
  • They stuck to their original proposal throughout the debate.
  • We should stick to our guns and not waver in our convictions.
  • Let's stick to the facts and avoid getting sidetracked by emotions.