discuss

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 Panelists discuss the president’s firing of the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General C. Q. Brown. The Editors, The Atlantic, 22 Feb. 2025 The survey found that 84% of Black singles discuss STI/STD status before becoming intimate, which is significant considering the pervasiveness of STIs and STDs in the United States. Elizabeth Ayoola, Essence, 22 Feb. 2025 Flanked by cardboard cutouts of the 37th U.S. President bowling, the brothers discuss much more than their hatred of the man, including dropping out of law school, pro sports, and credit cards. Will Digravio, TIME, 21 Feb. 2025 James has discussed retirement in each of the past few offseasons so his time in the is coming to an end soon. Matt Levine, Newsweek, 21 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for discuss
Recent Examples of Synonyms for discuss
Verb
  • Listen to this article Candidates for Evanston mayor and City Council debated what the next four years, and the next 20 years, should look like in the city at a forum hosted at the former site of Second Church of Christ on Feb. 9.
    Richard Requena, Chicago Tribune, 16 Feb. 2025
  • Officials are also debating possible new homebuilding regulations, including rezoning for lower housing density in especially fire-prone areas, and expediting a set of forthcoming standards for removing debris, flammable vegetation and wooden fences from the perimeters of homes.
    Monica Hunter-Hart, Forbes, 16 Feb. 2025
Verb
  • While it can be argued that the 20th century was defined by long-term employment and prioritizing a sense of stability, the modern landscape—carved in large by younger generations—revolves around personal fulfillment, work-life balance, and a sense of belonging.
    Chris Gallagher, USA TODAY, 15 Feb. 2025
  • First, the firm argues that the company’s intrinsic value has been obscured by its inefficient conglomerate structure, resulting in it trading in line with its lowest multiple refining segment despite a majority of EBITDA coming from its other premium businesses.
    Kenneth Squire, CNBC, 15 Feb. 2025
Verb
  • Thanks to the development of a special ferret-sized tracking collar, scientists are now reviewing data collected last fall to peek into the secret underground lives of the rare and elusive animals.
    Dinah Voyles Pulver, USA TODAY, 14 Feb. 2025
  • Federal officials review cost summaries, floor plans and other information to determine that rate.
    Emily Badger, New York Times, 14 Feb. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Discuss.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/discuss. Accessed 27 Feb. 2025.

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