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 Gadot has previously discussed being an indigenous Israeli and how her grandfather was his family’s sole survivor of the Holocaust and resettled in Israel. Kevin Dolak, The Hollywood Reporter, 18 Mar. 2025 With Presidents Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin set to discuss an end to the war in Ukraine, the fate of this city and its people hangs in the balance. Clarissa Ward, CNN, 18 Mar. 2025 Acquiring a forward, a versatile midfielder, a full-back and a goalkeeper has also been discussed, with Newcastle open to reinforcing every area across the team. Chris Waugh, The Athletic, 18 Mar. 2025 Meghan Markle will never win over UK public again, author claims Ingrid Seward, editor-in-chief of Majesty magazine and author of My Mother and I, discusses how the Duchess of Sussex isnt going to be welcomed back across the pond anytime soon following her royal exit. Stephanie Giang-Paunon, Fox News, 6 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for discuss
Recent Examples of Synonyms for discuss
Verb
  • Private Sector Responsibility: A Strategic Imperative As policymakers debate sweeping changes, the private sector must recognize the direct impact on human capital management and long-term business viability.
    Solange Charas, Forbes, 14 Mar. 2025
  • The House is likely to release its version of the state budget in mid-April and debate it at the end of the month.
    Chris Van Buskirk, Boston Herald, 13 Mar. 2025
Verb
  • The big picture: Democrats have hammered Trump and Elon Musk for their approach to slicing federal agencies, arguing the administration has cut positions and programs without a clear understanding of the consequences.
    Stephen Neukam, Axios, 11 Mar. 2025
  • Indeed, some analysts remain bullish — for example, ARK Invest famously projects massive long-term upside for Tesla, and Wedbush’s Dan Ives argues that autonomous tech is the holy grail that will eventually vindicate Tesla’s valuation.
    Shahar Ziv, Forbes, 11 Mar. 2025
Verb
  • Discrimination claims are reviewed under a three-step process under the precedent.
    CNN.com Wire Service, The Mercury News, 10 Mar. 2025
  • In a letter filed with the FCC, which is reviewing the transaction, lawyers for David Ellison‘s company laid out its concerns about Project Rise Partners.
    Dade Hayes, Deadline, 10 Mar. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Discuss.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/discuss. Accessed 22 Mar. 2025.

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