Synonyms of canvass

canvass

verb

ˈkan-vəs 

variants also canvas

1

as in to survey

to go around and approach (people) with a request for opinions or information

we canvassed people all over town, asking if they would be interested in participating in a recycling program

Synonyms & Similar Words

• survey
• interview
• poll
• solicit
• question
• interrogate
• sound (out)
• circularize
• feel (out)

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• report

2

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

canvassed all the items on the agenda

Synonyms & Similar Words

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

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of canvass

Its New York City chapter played a key role in Mamdani's campaign, providing an early endorsement and a legion of volunteers for canvassing and fundraising - and raising its own profile in the process. —NPR, 5 Nov. 2025

Many had never knocked on doors like this before, so Behn gave a quick crash course in using a canvassing app and recording voter feedback. —Vivian Jones, Nashville Tennessean, 4 Nov. 2025

The strategists also took a canvassing approach not just to door knocking but to paid media. —Amie Parnes, The Hill, 31 Oct. 2025

Hundreds of volunteers combed fields and streets, posting fliers and canvassing neighborhoods, their eyes peeled for any sign of the small blonde girl. —Dakin Andone, CNN Money, 26 Oct. 2025