I distinguish between arguments and fights; I can enjoy the former but not the latter. As I understand it, a debate has a set subject. A specific point regarding the subject is then argued. Arguments are what bring (or attempt to bring) a debate to its conclusion, with each side taking turns arguing the various sub points of their stance. My definition of discussion is more or less the same as yours, Kichi. Though I'd add that discussion rarely seems adhere to any topic for too long.
Hm, re-reading what I've written it might be useful to distinguish between everyday usage and formal / academic definitions here. Depending on the context they are used in, the words have different meanings. For example, the argument in "my friend and I had an argument" is different from "the presidential candidate put forth their argument", where one is referring to a fight and the other to a structured ... thing. Yeah it's 4am, my brain is dying. Again.
Hm, re-reading what I've written it might be useful to distinguish between everyday usage and formal / academic definitions here. Depending on the context they are used in, the words have different meanings. For example, the argument in "my friend and I had an argument" is different from "the presidential candidate put forth their argument", where one is referring to a fight and the other to a structured ... thing. Yeah it's 4am, my brain is dying. Again.
