discuss

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 And more recently, Denver officials made plans for the coming days to hold a planning exercise to discuss how the city would respond to a National Guard deployment here. Seth Klamann, Denver Post, 30 Sep. 2025 The ladies of 90210 will gather to discuss the special sneak peek, dish on the forthcoming season and celebrate Rachel Zoe’s return to Bravo. Kimberly Roots, TVLine, 30 Sep. 2025 The seeds of this deal were first discussed at the annual Africa Cinema Summit, started by BSIFF Founder Juliet Yaa Asantewaa Asante in 2023. Zac Ntim, Deadline, 30 Sep. 2025 The president was discussing his deployment of the National Guard to cities as part of his crackdown on crime and disorder, and stated that Chicago would soon see troops. Joe Edwards, MSNBC Newsweek, 30 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for discuss
Recent Examples of Synonyms for discuss
Verb
  • Kirk was a prolific podcaster, known for debating and defending his conservative, Christian values on the show.
    Stephanie Murray, AZCentral.com, 27 Sep. 2025
  • Even if a dissenting perspective isn’t correct or better, dissent brings different views to the fore so that they can be debated, and that improves and sharpens arguments, options and outcomes.
    Elizabeth Shackelford, Twin Cities, 26 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • Abrego Garcia’s lawyers have argued that travel to Moshannon is far more difficult for members of the defense team based in Nashville, and not easier for those in New York.
    Christine Valora, The Washington Examiner, 28 Sep. 2025
  • During oral arguments at the Arizona Supreme Court, attorney Eric Fraser, who argued on behalf of the state, didn't deny political violence occurred in the country.
    Taylor Seely, AZCentral.com, 28 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • Administrations must review course materials, curricula, syllabi and other instructional documents to ensure compliance and make adjustments as needed.
    Alexandra Koch, FOXNews.com, 28 Sep. 2025
  • Norris said the district is cooperating with authorities and reviewing the situation.
    Billal Rahman, MSNBC Newsweek, 28 Sep. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Discuss.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/discuss. Accessed 2 Oct. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on discuss

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