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A fallacious argument that attacks the person instead of addressing the actual issue or argument. It is significant as a form of invalid reasoning.

The assumption in policy debate that a proposed plan or policy could be implemented. Its significance lies in focusing the debate on the merits of the ideas rather than feasibility.

Speech that sets forth a debater’s main arguments for or against the resolution. Its significance is establishing a strong foundation for the case.

The existing state of affairs or current condition. In debating, the negative often defends the status quo against changes proposed by the affirmative.

A brief interjection during an opponent's speech where a question or statement is put forth; significant for clarification or refutation.

A statement or proposition that the affirmative team supports and the negative team opposes. It sets the ground for the debate.

The negative impacts or problems that the affirmative aims to solve with the resolution. Significance: Justification for adopting the proposed change or policy.

An alternative plan presented by the negative to solve the problems raised by the affirmative, arguing that it is preferable. Significance: introduces a competing method for resolving the issue.

The act of supporting or arguing for a policy, cause, or proposal in debate. Significance: Represents the debater's position and drive the arguments forward.

An argument that contends the proposed plan will result in negative outcomes. Significance: used by negatives to undermine the perceived benefits of the affirmative's plan.

An argumentative strategy where a debater uses the opponent's argument to support their own case. Its significance lies in redirecting the debate's momentum.

A standard in debates that requires arguments to be directly related to the resolution. Significance: ensures relevance and focus within the debate.

An assertion used to build an argument. Contentions are the main points used to support or refute the resolution.

A period during which a member of one team asks questions directly to a member of the opposing team. It clarifies and challenges points made previously.

The speech act of refuting points of the opposing team. Rebuttals are critical in undermining the opposition's arguments.

The note-taking method used by debaters to track the arguments throughout a debate. Effective flowing is significant for maintaining clarity and organization.

A critique that challenges the philosophical assumptions behind an argument. Its significance lies in questioning the underlying ideologies or discourses.

The side in a debate that supports the resolution. Its significance lies in providing arguments for change or the adoption of a policy.

A strategy where a debater presents a large number of arguments in a short time. It is significant for its ability to overwhelm the opponent.

The capability of the affirmative plan or negative counterplan to effectively solve the issues presented by the resolution. Significance: critical for proving the practicality of proposals.

The side in a debate that opposes the resolution. The negative seeks to present arguments against change or the affirmation's policy.