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 On Monday afternoon, Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid met with reporters to discuss the rehiring of Eric Bieniemy as offensive coordinator. Pete Sweeney, Kansas City Star, 27 Jan. 2026 The commissioners were charmed, but the real win was when a representative of a local homeowners’ association invited the students to attend their next meeting to discuss the project. Alex Harris, Miami Herald, 27 Jan. 2026 Glenn and Engstrand had recently discussed his role moving forward. Antwan Staley, New York Daily News, 27 Jan. 2026 Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey also met with Homan to discuss next steps. Nicole Sganga, CBS News, 27 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for discuss
Recent Examples of Synonyms for discuss
Verb
  • While sleep is seen across the animal kingdom, its purpose is still debated.
    New Atlas, New Atlas, 24 Jan. 2026
  • How to watch Texas senate candidates debate The one-hour debate is hosted by Nexstar Media Group, which owns KXAN.
    Marley Malenfant, Austin American Statesman, 24 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • The opposition People Power Party, however, argues that the National Assembly must ratify the trade deal due to the exorbitant costs involved.
    Brady Knox, The Washington Examiner, 27 Jan. 2026
  • The overriding factor, Tait argued, is the global debt burden.
    Sean Lee, Forbes.com, 27 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • Prior to the shooting, videos reviewed by CNN show that tensions escalated quickly in a south Minneapolis neighborhood where a group of federal agents were conducting an operation.
    Thomas Bordeaux, CNN Money, 25 Jan. 2026
  • However, in bystander videos of the shooting reviewed by The Associated Press, Pretti is seen with only a phone in his hand; none of the videos appear to show him with a weapon.
    Hannah Fingerhut, Twin Cities, 25 Jan. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Discuss.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/discuss. Accessed 30 Jan. 2026.

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