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 Here are six vaccines Nadolne said patients 50 and older should discuss with their health care providers. Rachel Brown Kirkland, AJC.com, 21 Apr. 2026 Vance’s plans to depart for Iran peace talks in Islamabad have been put on hold for now as officials meet to discuss the path forward, sources told CNN. Sophia Saifi, CNN Money, 21 Apr. 2026 All three spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss the behind-the-scenes negotiations. Arkansas Online, 21 Apr. 2026 The community is an online subculture that emerged from forums established after the Columbine massacre to discuss and, in some cases, glorify such violence. Maria Verza, Chicago Tribune, 21 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for discuss
Recent Examples of Synonyms for discuss
Verb
  • Policy experts have begun to debate whether the act applies to negotiations beyond free broadcast TV distribution.
    Bloomberg, Mercury News, 10 Apr. 2026
  • Curriculum debates crop up occasionally.
    Heather Hollingsworth, Los Angeles Times, 10 Apr. 2026
Verb
  • Democrats are demanding that Mills also be expelled, arguing similar conduct should have similar outcomes.
    Jared Gans, The Hill, 21 Apr. 2026
  • Arteta and his Arsenal squad have, of course, downplayed the noise around the club this season, arguing that the widespread mocking doesn’t impact the inner sanctum of the team.
    Ben Church, CNN Money, 20 Apr. 2026
Verb
  • PCMag editors select and review products independently.
    StackCommerce Team, PC Magazine, 11 Apr. 2026
  • This results page was generated automatically using information from TinBu and a template written and reviewed by a Rhode Island editor.
    Staff Reports, The Providence Journal, 11 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Discuss.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/discuss. Accessed 25 Apr. 2026.

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