discuss

Discuss is a verb that means to talk or write about a subject in order to examine it, consider its aspects, or decide on a course of action. The activity typically involves exchanging information, asking questions, and presenting points for consideration. Discussing aims to promote understanding or inform decision-making, rather than to win an argument.

In use, discuss takes a direct object: you discuss something, such as a topic, issue, plan, or option. Common collocations include discuss the implications, discuss options, discuss with colleagues, and discuss at length. The form changes with tense and subject: I discuss, you discuss, he discusses, they are discussing, yesterday we discussed. A discussion is the noun form that refers to the act or instance of discussing or a set of related conversations.

Etymology and history: discuss comes from the Latin discutere, meaning to shake apart or examine in detail, from dis- “apart” and quatere “to shake.” The word entered English in the late Middle Ages and evolved to signify careful examination and consideration through dialogue.

Related terms and nuances: discussion and debate are often used together but have different tones. A discussion emphasizes exploration and shared understanding, while a debate centers on presenting opposing viewpoints. To discuss with someone implies a mutual exchange, whereas to discuss something with someone can also imply briefing or informing. Examples include “We will discuss the project timeline” and “Let’s discuss the pros and cons of each option.”