discussion

noun

dis·​cus·​sion di-ˈskə-shən 

1

: consideration of a question in open and usually informal debate

a heated political discussion

2

: a formal treatment of a topic in speech or writing

A discussion on the topic is included in the first chapter.

Synonyms of discussion

• debate
• consultation
• consult
• talk
• conversation
• dialogue
• conference
• meeting
• argumentation

Examples of discussion in a Sentence

The class was involved in a heated discussion about politics.

I hope to have a discussion with them about the matter soon.

After much discussion of the plan, the idea was rejected entirely.

During the period under discussion, the town grew in size.

The smoking ban is a major topic of discussion these days.

The article is an in-depth discussion of his theories.

The first chapter includes a discussion of childcare issues.

Recent Examples on the Web

Others come during private discussions. —Jeffrey Sonnenfeld, Time, 13 Jan. 2026

Below is the full transcript of their discussion. —Esme Murphy, CBS News, 13 Jan. 2026

The plan has three phases, right now the district is in the discussion and decision phase, the second phase is planning and will be around next year. —Fousia Abdullahi, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 13 Jan. 2026

The piece is abstract, and combines — to break it down for the sake of easy discussion — the shape of a railroad trestle adorned with hummingbird feathers. —Ray Mark Rinaldi, Denver Post, 12 Jan. 2026

Word History

Etymology

see discuss

First Known Use

1546, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing discussion

• group discussion
• open for discussion
• panel discussion
• topic of discussion
• under discussion
• up for discussion

Rhymes for discussion

• concussion
• percussion
• belorussian
• repercussion
• byelorussian
• kushan
• russian

Kids Definition

discussion

noun

dis·​cus·​sion dis-ˈkəsh-ən 

: conversation or debate for the purpose of understanding a question or subject