Synonyms of discuss

discuss

verb

di-ˈskəs 

as in to debate

to talk about (an issue) usually from various points of view and for the purpose of arriving at a decision or opinion

we discussed the new proposal for the school stadium

Synonyms & Similar Words

• debate
• argue
• review
• dispute
• talk over
• consider
• agitate
• canvass
• introduce
• raise
• moot
• bat (around or back and forth)
• bandy
• talk (about)
• weigh
• speak (about)
• hash (over or out)
• stir up
• broach
• propound
• talk out
• forge
• hammer out
• wrestle (with)
• thrash (out)
• deliberate
• chew over

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

Recent Examples of discuss

That review led to a roundtable organized by the eminent journal October to discuss Morris’s work and to take stock of the avant-garde production of the ’60s. —Shanti Escalante-De Mattei, ARTnews.com, 16 June 2026

Some were painful and defensive, while others were grateful the topic was being discussed. —Nia Dumas, NPR, 16 June 2026

Over 65 city councilmembers, mayors, city managers and regional public safety leaders gathered at Saratoga Prospect Center on June 11 to discuss leadership practices during emergencies. —Nollyanne Delacruz, Mercury News, 16 June 2026

Investigators also recovered messages discussing members of Congress, according to the affidavit. —Christina Coulter, PEOPLE, 16 June 2026