Definition of discussnext

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 Syrian and Iraqi leaders discuss security concerns Syrian interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa and Iraq’s Kurdish regional president met Monday in Damascus to discuss ways of improving mutual cooperation and contributing to regional security. Elena Becatoros, Chicago Tribune, 3 Aug. 2026 Watch Chandler discuss his Comic-Con adventures in the clip above. Emlyn Travis, Entertainment Weekly, 3 Aug. 2026 Couture said the bill was being discussed while leadership in Killingworth first began discussing moving away from FLOCK cameras, but it hadn’t been passed yet at that time. Justin Muszynski, Hartford Courant, 3 Aug. 2026 According to them, the clubs never discussed such a proposal. Gary Phillips, New York Daily News, 3 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for discuss
Recent Examples of Synonyms for discuss
Verb
  • Communities will debate whether AI improves access to knowledge or deepens dependence on a few private platforms.
    Gerui Wang, Forbes.com, 1 Aug. 2026
  • Renner said Donalds is ignoring base Republican voters in his campaign, especially by refusing to debate him, Collins and conservative activist and investor James Fishback.
    Gray Rohrer, Miami Herald, 31 July 2026
Verb
  • That’s why the oil market may be underpricing that risk, argued Tompkins.
    David Goldman, CNN Money, 3 Aug. 2026
  • The more pragmatic camp argues that maintaining unity during the war requires addressing the public's unhappiness over the economy as well as political and social repression.
    ABC News, ABC News, 2 Aug. 2026
Verb
  • Social media platforms like Instagram may also have security settings to review devices that have access to your account.
    Auzinea Bacon, CNN Money, 4 Aug. 2026
  • Governance, risk and compliance functions don't typically review AI agent deployments.
    Steve Wilson, Forbes.com, 4 Aug. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Discuss.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/discuss. Accessed 6 Aug. 2026.

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