Another Word for Discuss: 11 Synonyms with Examples
To discuss is to talk or write about something, looking at different sides. In essays, a sharper verb shows whether you are analysing, debating or simply mentioning.
As a verb: talk about
- talk about
- debate
- consider
- deliberate
- confer
- go over
As a verb: write or speak about in detail
Need a different word?Look up any word in the synonym finder →
How they differ
Synonyms share a meaning, not always a tone. Here is when to pick each of the main options.
- debate
- Implies arguing for and against, often formally.
- examine
- Looks at something closely and critically; strong in essays.
- explore
- Looks into a topic in an open, investigative way.
- address
- Deals with a specific question or problem directly.
- deliberate
- Discusses carefully before deciding, as a jury or committee does.
- go over
- Informal; reviews something already known.
Example sentences
- debate: The society debated whether homework should be banned.
- examine: This chapter examines the causes of the 1929 crash.
- explore: The podcast explores how cities cope with heatwaves.
- address: The second section addresses the main objection to the plan.
- deliberate: The judges deliberated for an hour before announcing the winner.
- go over: Let's go over the timetable once more before Friday.
Opposite of discuss
- ignore
- overlook
- dismiss
More from WordNet
Less common or more specialised words WordNet lists for other senses of “discuss”. Check the meaning before you use one.
verb: discourse
WordNet 3.1, Princeton University. Used under the WordNet licence.
Frequently asked questions
What is another word for “discuss”?
The most useful alternatives are “talk about”, “debate”, “consider”, “deliberate”, “confer”. For the main sense (talk about), “talk about” is usually the closest swap.
What is the difference between “debate” and “examine”?
debate: Implies arguing for and against, often formally. examine: Looks at something closely and critically; strong in essays.
What is the opposite of “discuss”?
Common antonyms are “ignore”, “overlook”, “dismiss”.