discuss

Definition of discussnext

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb discuss contrast with its synonyms?

The words argue and debate are common synonyms of discuss. While all three words mean "to discourse about in order to reach conclusions or to convince," discuss implies a sifting of possibilities especially by presenting considerations pro and con.

discussed the need for a new highway

When can argue be used instead of discuss?

Although the words argue and discuss have much in common, argue implies the offering of reasons or evidence in support of convictions already held.

argued that the project would be too costly

When would debate be a good substitute for discuss?

The synonyms debate and discuss are sometimes interchangeable, but debate suggests formal or public argument between opposing parties; it may also apply to deliberation with oneself.

debated the merits of the amendment
I'm debating whether I should go

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of discuss The person was not authorized to publicly discuss the matter and confirmed the indictment to The Associated Press on the condition of anonymity. Alanna Durkin Richer, Fortune, 28 Apr. 2026 In February, Palm Beach County officials discussed finding alternate sources of revenue, such as any potential money from digital billboards, school-zone cameras, cellphone towers and naming rights. Abigail Hasebroock, Sun Sentinel, 28 Apr. 2026 Several universities have since invited her to provide faculty workshops or discuss her research. Jocelyn Gecker, Los Angeles Times, 28 Apr. 2026 Representatives of the Mid Beach Neighborhood Association and the Fontainebleau plan to meet again May 5 to discuss the association’s recommendations for the project, Ferreira de Melo said. Aaron Leibowitz, Miami Herald, 28 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for discuss
Recent Examples of Synonyms for discuss
Verb
  • Idaho lawmakers spent hours debating a surge in rodents menacing Boise-area gardens and kitchens and threatening agriculture and public health.
    Karin Brulliard, Washington Post, 25 Apr. 2026
  • While city leaders debated how to restructure the system, LAHSA employees said the uncertainty is already taking a toll.
    Teresa Liu, Daily News, 25 Apr. 2026
Verb
  • Trump has argued that last weekend’s shooting at the White House Correspondents' Association dinner demonstrates why the ballroom is needed to hold safe, secure events for the president and other officials.
    Kathryn Palmer, USA Today, 28 Apr. 2026
  • Some have argued that social media activity amounts to citizen journalism, but mostly citizen journalism appeared to have been displaced or subsumed by social media.
    Encyclopedia Britannica, Encyclopedia Britannica, 27 Apr. 2026
Verb
  • Partners have no control over or input into the reporting or editing process and do not review stories before publication.
    Data Skrive, New York Times, 25 Apr. 2026
  • The presentation was not an action item, but the board decided to review current policies, specifically to ask the superintendent questions and clarify current policies and practices that affect the union.
    Olivia Young, CBS News, 25 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Discuss.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/discuss. Accessed 2 May. 2026.

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