The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word DEBATES
I've seen this crossword clue in The Guardian
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More clues leading to the result DEBATES
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "arguments with opponents" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case arguments with opponents = debates.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does DEBATES mean?
DEBATES noun- An argument, or discussion, usually in an ordered or formal setting, often with more than two people, generally ending with a vote or other decision.
- An informal and spirited but generally civil discussion of opposing views.
- Discussion of opposing views.
- (frequently in the French form débat) A type of literary composition, taking the form of a discussion or disputation, commonly found in the vernacular medieval poetry of many European countries, as well as in medieval Latin.
- Strife, discord.
- To participate in a debate; to dispute, argue, especially in a public arena.
- To fight.
- To engage in combat for; to strive for.
- To consider (to oneself), to think over, to attempt to decide