discuss

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 Lago also asked the city to host a town hall with residents to discuss the park’s design plans. Michelle Marchante, Miami Herald, 24 Feb. 2026 For educators and parents, the protests offer a chance to discuss constitutional rights, institutional boundaries and the responsibilities that accompany activism. Karl W. Bickel, Baltimore Sun, 24 Feb. 2026 In the first interview document, the woman discussed ways Epstein abused her as a girl and, in identifying him to investigators, showed a cropped photo of the disgraced financier. Stephen Fowler, NPR, 24 Feb. 2026 Representatives for all three companies declined to discuss product plans; Prada and Meta had no comment on the couple’s travel plans. Bloomberg, Mercury News, 24 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for discuss
Recent Examples of Synonyms for discuss
Verb
  • Treasury yields drifted higher but the move was contained as investors debated the merits of growth versus inflation.
    Jeff Cox, CNBC, 21 Feb. 2026
  • High-stakes debate on whether to renovate or relocate shifts to new phase for mayor and council members.
    Everton Bailey Jr, Dallas Morning News, 21 Feb. 2026
Verb
  • Republicans have argued the judge did not have legal authority to enact a map that wasn’t approved by the Legislature.
    David A. Lieb, Los Angeles Times, 24 Feb. 2026
  • The union representing correctional officers quickly opposed the recommendation in a Monday afternoon statement, arguing that permanent closures present fiscal and operational risks to California.
    William Melhado, Sacbee.com, 24 Feb. 2026
Verb
  • This results page was generated automatically using information from TinBu and a template written and reviewed by a USA Today editor.
    USA Today staff, USA Today, 22 Feb. 2026
  • The creation of this content included the use of AI based on templates created, reviewed and edited by journalists in the newsroom.
    CA Weather Bot, Sacbee.com, 21 Feb. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Discuss.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/discuss. Accessed 27 Feb. 2026.

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