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

Most notably, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy would not participate, meaning the leaders of the three major powers would be discussing the future of a country without its president. — Lim Hui Jie, CNBC, 19 Oct. 2026

Crystal also praised Short while discussing his SNL compatriots. — Wesley Stenzel, Entertainment Weekly, 19 Oct. 2026

This conceit allows Harbach to trace the development of not just his characters but his own work, through the reception of Owen’s book and through the way Westish students discuss his other authorial proxy, Edith Wharton. — B. D. McClay, New Yorker, 19 Oct. 2026

The meeting lasted about 10 minutes, according to the statement, which did not disclose the location nor provide details about what was discussed. — Los Angeles Times, 19 Oct. 2026