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 No word yet on what Walter will be discussing in the special. Matt Grobar, Deadline, 14 Oct. 2025 Randle appeared on the Pod Meets World podcast in September 2022, discussing her character's place on the series, which focused heavily on the father-son dynamics between Cory, Eric and their dad, Alan. Kate Hogan, PEOPLE, 14 Oct. 2025 In the video, which was released last week and first obtained by Fox News, Noem starts by discussing travel, but the message quickly becomes political. Alexandra Skores, CNN Money, 14 Oct. 2025 Here, Norton discusses the firm’s next phase of growth. Sofia Celeste, Footwear News, 14 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for discuss
Recent Examples of Synonyms for discuss
Verb
  • Geologists debate boundaries of the ring of fire While geologists widely agree upon most regions within the Pacific Ring of Fire, several areas remain subject to debate.
    Shane Croucher, MSNBC Newsweek, 10 Oct. 2025
  • With the nation's 250th anniversary approaching, many teachers, parents and politicians are debating the best ways for students to learn about American history.
    Cory Turner, NPR, 10 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • Though the resentencing hearing would still proceed, Hochman’s office would argue against it in court.
    Elizabeth Wolfe, CNN Money, 12 Oct. 2025
  • The weapon system would allow Ukraine to strike deeper into Russian territory and put the sort of pressure on Putin that Zelenskyy argues is needed to get the Russians to seriously engage in peace talks.
    Jason Ma, Fortune, 12 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • The creation of this content included the use of AI based on templates created, reviewed and edited by journalists in the newsroom.
    CA WILDFIRE BOT, Sacbee.com, 13 Oct. 2025
  • Overall, Holsendolph, Hill and other Foundation vendors did provide some goods and services to the nonprofit for legitimate fundraising events, according to Jackson documents reviewed by the Herald and Gatlin’s indictment.
    Michelle Marchante, Miami Herald, 12 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Discuss.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/discuss. Accessed 15 Oct. 2025.

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