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 More galling to Bonta is that what was discussed at that meeting slipped out into the public sphere. Dominic Patten, Deadline, 24 Aug. 2026 Part of the challenge is the care scientists must take when discussing extreme events. Peter Prengaman, Fortune, 24 Aug. 2026 The new partnership will allow students at the academies access to possible internships, tours related to military service, and the opportunity to meet and discuss military service with members of the guard while in school, Brig. Brett Barrouquere, Arkansas Online, 24 Aug. 2026 Representatives for Paramount and California were reportedly slated to meet today to discuss settling the antitrust suit. Alex Harring, CNBC, 24 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for discuss
Recent Examples of Synonyms for discuss
Verb
  • Supporters are circulating clips of Ossoff’s speeches, debating his prospects against other potential 2028 Democratic contenders and increasingly comparing his trajectory with Obama’s rapid rise from the Senate to the White House.
    Samantha-Jo Roth, The Washington Examiner, 22 Aug. 2026
  • Opportunities are delayed because organizations are debating whose numbers are correct rather than deciding what actions to take.
    Ashraf Altawashi, Forbes.com, 21 Aug. 2026
Verb
  • Opponents argue that the nation that won its independence from Denmark in 1944 enjoys all the benefits of European integration with no drawbacks.
    ABC News, ABC News, 24 Aug. 2026
  • Independent investigators, including the late doctor and whistleblower Gao Yaojie, argued the actual number could be much higher.
    CNN Staff, CNN Money, 23 Aug. 2026
Verb
  • To join, the volunteer administrators usually require proof of a student’s admission, like screenshots or scans of an admissions letter for a page administrator to review.
    Mary Frances Ruskell, CNN Money, 19 Aug. 2026
  • Levi Fuller, the agency's first inspector general for educator misconduct, told CBS News Texas that the goal is to move investigations more quickly and keep educators accused of serious misconduct out of classrooms while cases are reviewed.
    Amelia Mugavero, CBS News, 19 Aug. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Discuss.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/discuss. Accessed 26 Aug. 2026.

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