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

Detectives and crime scene investigators were at the scene Thursday, canvassing for witnesses and processing evidence. — Kendrick Calfee, Kansas City Star, 31 July 2026

The fatal shooting drew a large law enforcement presence that Sunday night as authorities worked at the scene in the parking lot and investigators canvassed nearby businesses searching for witnesses. — Rosalio Ahumada, Sacbee.com, 30 July 2026

The Athletic has canvassed the opinion of 25 stakeholders in the sport to get their top 10 pound-for-pound lists. — Chris McKenna, New York Times, 28 July 2026

That had James canvassing potential landing spots, including the return to his hometown to play for the Cavaliers and a potential pairing with Stephen Curry with the Golden State Warriors. — Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 24 July 2026