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

The Dallas Office of Arts and Culture plans to host community meetings in the coming weeks to discuss future projects. —Marissa Armas, CBS News, 24 Mar. 2026

The Israeli military still needs weeks to complete its war aims, the two Israeli officials said, speaking on condition of anonymity in order to discuss internal military deliberations. —Daniel Estrin, NPR, 24 Mar. 2026

Osment discussed her time on the show during a recent interview with Variety, saying so much of the time on Hannah Montana coincided with her own high school experience. —Lizzie Lanuza, StyleCaster, 24 Mar. 2026

Joining me to discuss the current crisis in Cuba and the evolution of Secretary of State Marco Rubio is USA TODAY's White House Correspondent Francesca Chambers. —Dana Taylor, USA Today, 24 Mar. 2026