Explanation at your level:
Hello! The word discuss is a verb. It means to talk about something. Imagine you have a toy, and you want to tell your friend about it. You can discuss the toy with your friend. You share ideas. It’s like having a little chat about something. For example, 'Let's discuss the game.' This means let's talk about the game. It’s a simple way to share information.
The verb discuss means to talk about a topic or subject with someone else. It’s more than just a quick chat; it usually involves sharing opinions or information. For instance, you might discuss your homework with a classmate to understand it better, or discuss plans for the weekend with your family. Remember, you usually discuss something directly, like 'We will discuss the movie,' without adding 'about'.
Discuss is a common verb used when people talk about a subject in detail, exchanging ideas and opinions. It implies a more focused conversation than just casual talk. You might discuss a problem with a colleague to find a solution, or discuss a book you’ve read with friends. It’s important to use it correctly: you discuss a topic, rather than 'discuss about' a topic. This verb is essential for collaborative work and deeper understanding.
The verb discuss signifies a thorough examination of a subject through conversation, involving the exchange of diverse viewpoints. It can range from informal conversations to more structured debates. For example, a team might discuss strategies for a new project, or a committee might discuss policy changes. While often used neutrally, it can imply a need to resolve issues or reach a consensus. Be mindful of register; in formal contexts, synonyms like 'deliberate' or 'examine' might be preferred depending on the nuance.
Discuss denotes a formal or informal discourse aimed at exploring a topic comprehensively. It involves presenting and considering various perspectives, arguments, and evidence. In academic or professional settings, discuss often implies a critical analysis or evaluation of a subject, potentially leading to informed conclusions or recommendations. For instance, researchers might discuss the implications of their findings, or policymakers might discuss the feasibility of proposed legislation. The word carries a connotation of intellectual engagement and detailed consideration.
The verb discuss, originating from Latin 'discutere' (to shake apart), implies a rigorous intellectual process of deconstructing and examining a subject. It transcends mere conversation, suggesting a methodical exploration of facets, arguments, and counter-arguments. In advanced contexts, it can refer to a critical appraisal, scholarly debate, or even a philosophical inquiry. For example, a literary critic might discuss the thematic complexities of a novel, or a philosopher might discuss the nature of consciousness. Its usage often implies a depth of analysis and a sophisticated engagement with the subject matter.
Word in 30 Seconds
- Verb: To talk about a subject in detail.
- Commonly used in formal and informal settings.
- Avoid the redundant phrase 'discuss about'.
- Implies an exchange of ideas, often with a purpose.
Hey there! Let's dive into the word discuss. It's a super useful verb that means to talk about something, usually in a thoughtful and detailed way. Think of it as a conversation where people share their thoughts, opinions, and information about a particular subject. It's not just casual chit-chat; there's usually a purpose behind it, like solving a problem, making a decision, or understanding something better.
When you discuss something, you're engaging in a form of communication that involves exchanging ideas. It can happen between two people, a small group, or even in a larger forum. The key is that information and perspectives are being shared and considered. It’s a fundamental part of learning, working together, and navigating relationships. So, whether you're talking about your day with a friend or debating a complex issue in a meeting, you're likely discussing!
The word discuss has a fascinating journey from Latin! It comes from the Latin word discutere, which literally means 'to shake apart' or 'to strike down'. This original meaning might seem a bit harsh, but it hints at the idea of breaking down a subject into its parts to examine it closely. Think of it like shaking something apart to see what's inside!
Over time, this sense of 'shaking apart' evolved into the idea of examining or inquiring into something by argument. By the 15th century, it had entered English with the meaning we largely use today: to talk about something thoroughly. It’s interesting how a word that once meant to 'strike down' now means to 'talk through'. It shows how language can soften and adapt its meanings to fit new social contexts. The root quatiō, meaning 'to shake', also gives us related words, but discutere specifically took the path towards intellectual examination.
Discuss is a versatile verb used in many situations, from casual chats to formal presentations. You can discuss a topic, an issue, a problem, a plan, or even feelings. It's often followed by prepositions like 'about' or 'on', but not always! For example, you might say, 'Let's discuss the project,' or 'We need to discuss this issue further.' Sometimes, you might hear 'discuss about,' but this is generally considered redundant and less formal; 'discuss' itself implies talking 'about' something.
In formal settings, like academic conferences or business meetings, discuss implies a structured exchange of ideas, often leading to conclusions or decisions. In more casual settings, it simply means having a conversation about a subject. It’s important to note the register: while you might discuss weekend plans with a friend, you would likely deliberate or debate a serious policy matter in a formal setting. Understanding these nuances helps you use the word effectively in different contexts.
While 'discuss' itself isn't heavily featured in many unique idioms, the *concept* of discussion is woven into common phrases. Here are a few related expressions:
- Talk something over: This is a very common, slightly more casual synonym for 'discuss'. It implies talking about a problem or decision until you reach an agreement or understanding.
Example: We need to talk over the budget before the meeting. - Hash something out: This means to discuss something thoroughly, often a disagreement or problem, until it is resolved. It suggests a more vigorous and sometimes lengthy discussion.
Example: They stayed late to hash out their differences. - Chew the fat: This is a very informal idiom for having a long, relaxed, and often aimless conversation. It's less about solving problems and more about socializing.
Example: We spent the afternoon just chewing the fat. - Debate: While not an idiom, 'debate' is a closely related word often used for more formal, structured discussions, especially when there are opposing viewpoints.
Example: The candidates will debate the economic policies tonight. - Exchange views: This phrase emphasizes the reciprocal nature of a discussion, where different perspectives are shared.
Example: The delegates met to exchange views on international cooperation.
The verb discuss is regular and follows standard English verb conjugation. Its past tense is discussed, and the present participle is discussing. A key grammatical point is that discuss is a transitive verb, meaning it usually takes a direct object. You discuss *something*. For example, 'They discussed the movie.' You typically do not need the preposition 'about' after 'discuss'; saying 'discuss about' is redundant. So, it's 'discuss the plan,' not 'discuss about the plan.'
Pronunciation: The word has two syllables: dis-CUSS. The stress falls on the second syllable. The 'i' in the first syllable sounds like the 'i' in 'sit' (/ɪ/), and the 'u' in the second syllable sounds like the 'u' in 'cup' (/ʌ/). The final 's' sound is voiced (/z/).
IPA (International Phonetic Alphabet):
- British English: /dɪˈskʌs/
- American English: /dɪˈskʌs/
Rhyming words include: bus, fuss, plus, thus, thus.
Fun Fact
The original Latin meaning 'to shake apart' or 'strike down' is quite different from today's meaning of thoughtful conversation! It reflects an older idea of breaking down a subject to analyze it.
Pronunciation Guide
Sounds like 'diss-CUSS', with the stress on the second syllable. The 'i' is short like in 'sit', and the 'u' is short like in 'cup'.
Identical to British pronunciation: 'diss-CUSS', emphasis on the second syllable.
Common Errors
- Pronouncing the first 'i' as long (like 'ice'). It should be short.
- Putting stress on the first syllable (DIS-cuss). The stress is on the second syllable.
- Pronouncing the final 's' as unvoiced (/s/) instead of voiced (/z/). It should sound like 'dis-CUZZ'.
Rhymes With
Difficulty Rating
Easy to understand in most contexts.
Straightforward, but avoid 'discuss about'.
Commonly used, easy to incorporate.
Frequently heard in various media.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Transitive Verbs
'Discuss' needs an object: 'discuss the plan'.
Redundancy
Avoid 'discuss about'. 'Discuss' already means 'talk about'.
Verb Tenses
Past: discussed, Present: discuss/discusses, Future: will discuss.
Examples by Level
Let's discuss the game.
Let's / talk about / the game.
Use 'discuss' directly with the topic.
We discuss our toys.
We / talk about / our toys.
Simple present tense for habits.
Mom and I discuss books.
Mom / and / I / talk about / books.
Subject-verb agreement.
Can we discuss this later?
Can / we / talk about / this / later?
Modal verb 'can' for requests.
They discuss the plan.
They / talk about / the plan.
Plural subject 'they'.
I like to discuss ideas.
I / like / to talk about / ideas.
Infinitive form 'to discuss'.
He will discuss the problem.
He / will / talk about / the problem.
Future tense with 'will'.
Discuss your favorite color.
Talk about / your / favorite / color.
Imperative mood (command).
We need to discuss our holiday plans.
We / need / to talk about / our / holiday / plans.
Use 'need to' for necessity.
Let's discuss the best way to solve this.
Let's / talk about / the best / way / to solve / this.
'Let's' for suggestions.
They discussed the movie after watching it.
They / talked about / the movie / after / watching / it.
Past tense 'discussed'.
Can you discuss this report with me?
Can / you / talk about / this / report / with / me?
Request using 'Can you...?'
We often discuss current events.
We / often / talk about / current / events.
Adverb of frequency 'often'.
The teacher asked us to discuss the chapter.
The / teacher / asked / us / to talk about / the chapter.
Reported speech structure.
It's important to discuss different viewpoints.
It's / important / to talk about / different / viewpoints.
Using 'it's important to...'
They are discussing the new project.
They / are / talking about / the new / project.
Present continuous tense.
We need to discuss the budget allocation for the next fiscal year.
We / need / to discuss / the budget / allocation / for / the next / fiscal year.
Formal context: 'budget allocation', 'fiscal year'.
The committee will discuss the proposed changes at their next meeting.
The / committee / will / discuss / the proposed / changes / at / their / next / meeting.
Future tense with formal subject 'committee'.
I had a long discussion with my manager about my career path.
I / had / a long / discussion / with / my manager / about / my career path.
Noun form 'discussion' used with 'about'.
Let's discuss the pros and cons before making a decision.
Let's / discuss / the pros / and / cons / before / making / a decision.
Common phrase 'pros and cons'.
They discussed the historical significance of the event.
They / discussed / the historical / significance / of / the event.
Using abstract nouns like 'significance'.
It's crucial that we discuss potential risks openly.
It's / crucial / that / we / discuss / potential / risks / openly.
Using 'crucial that' + subjunctive.
The students were asked to discuss the themes in the novel.
The / students / were asked / to discuss / the themes / in / the novel.
Passive voice 'were asked to'.
We spent hours discussing ways to improve efficiency.
We / spent / hours / discussing / ways / to improve / efficiency.
Gerund 'discussing' after 'spent hours'.
The panel will discuss the ethical implications of artificial intelligence.
The / panel / will / discuss / the ethical / implications / of / artificial intelligence.
Formal vocabulary: 'panel', 'ethical implications'.
Before implementing the policy, we must thoroughly discuss its potential impact.
Before / implementing / the policy, / we / must / thoroughly / discuss / its / potential / impact.
Adverb 'thoroughly' modifying 'discuss'.
The article fails to adequately discuss the underlying socio-economic factors.
The / article / fails / to adequately / discuss / the underlying / socio-economic / factors.
Negative phrasing 'fails to adequately discuss'.
They engaged in a lengthy discussion regarding the merger.
They / engaged in / a lengthy / discussion / regarding / the merger.
Formal synonym 'regarding' used instead of 'about'.
It's imperative that all stakeholders discuss the feasibility of the proposal.
It's / imperative / that / all / stakeholders / discuss / the feasibility / of / the proposal.
Formal vocabulary: 'imperative', 'stakeholders', 'feasibility'.
The documentary discussed the challenges faced by refugees.
The / documentary / discussed / the challenges / faced / by / refugees.
Past tense, discussing a sensitive topic.
We need to discuss how to mitigate these risks effectively.
We / need / to discuss / how / to mitigate / these / risks / effectively.
Phrasal verb 'mitigate risks'.
The speaker invited the audience to discuss their personal experiences.
The / speaker / invited / the audience / to discuss / their / personal / experiences.
Verb + infinitive structure.
The academic paper seeks to discuss the nuanced relationship between climate change and migration patterns.
The / academic paper / seeks / to discuss / the nuanced / relationship / between / climate change / and / migration patterns.
Sophisticated vocabulary: 'nuanced', 'migration patterns'.
During the seminar, participants were encouraged to discuss the theoretical underpinnings of the methodology.
During / the seminar, / participants / were encouraged / to discuss / the theoretical / underpinnings / of / the methodology.
Formal phrasing: 'theoretical underpinnings'.
The report critically discusses the socio-political ramifications of the policy shift.
The / report / critically / discusses / the socio-political / ramifications / of / the policy shift.
Adverb 'critically' adds depth to 'discuss'.
We must move beyond superficialities and discuss the fundamental issues at play.
We / must / move beyond / superficialities / and / discuss / the fundamental / issues / at play.
Figurative language: 'move beyond superficialities'.
The author doesn't just present facts; he discusses their broader cultural significance.
The / author / doesn't just / present facts; / he / discusses / their / broader / cultural / significance.
Contrastive structure: 'doesn't just... but discusses...'
The interview delved into how artists discuss contemporary societal anxieties through their work.
The / interview / delved into / how / artists / discuss / contemporary / societal / anxieties / through / their work.
Figurative use: 'delved into' and discussing abstract concepts.
It is essential to discuss the potential for unintended consequences.
It / is / essential / to discuss / the potential / for / unintended / consequences.
Formal phrasing: 'potential for unintended consequences'.
The symposium provided a platform to discuss emerging trends in biotechnology.
The / symposium / provided / a platform / to discuss / emerging / trends / in / biotechnology.
Formal context: 'symposium', 'emerging trends'.
The treatise meticulously discusses the dialectical interplay between individual agency and structural constraints.
The / treatise / meticulously / discusses / the dialectical / interplay / between / individual agency / and / structural constraints.
Highly academic vocabulary: 'treatise', 'dialectical interplay', 'agency', 'constraints'.
Her seminal work discusses the ontological assumptions underpinning postmodern discourse.
Her / seminal work / discusses / the ontological / assumptions / underpinning / postmodern / discourse.
Specialized philosophical terms: 'seminal', 'ontological assumptions', 'discourse'.
The historical analysis discusses the complex evolution of national identity, eschewing simplistic narratives.
The / historical analysis / discusses / the complex / evolution / of / national identity, / eschewing / simplistic / narratives.
Advanced vocabulary: 'eschewing', 'national identity'.
This chapter will discuss the epistemological challenges inherent in quantum mechanics.
This / chapter / will / discuss / the epistemological / challenges / inherent / in / quantum mechanics.
Specialized field terminology: 'epistemological challenges'.
The critique discusses how representation is negotiated within the cinematic apparatus.
The / critique / discusses / how / representation / is negotiated / within / the cinematic / apparatus.
Academic jargon: 'representation', 'negotiated', 'cinematic apparatus'.
He discusses the teleological arguments for God's existence with considerable erudition.
He / discusses / the teleological / arguments / for / God's existence / with / considerable / erudition.
Philosophical term 'teleological', advanced adverb 'erudition'.
The paper discusses the hermeneutic circle as applied to textual interpretation.
The / paper / discusses / the hermeneutic / circle / as applied / to / textual interpretation.
Specific literary theory term: 'hermeneutic circle'.
We shall discuss the ramifications of this paradigm shift across multiple disciplines.
We / shall / discuss / the ramifications / of / this / paradigm shift / across / multiple / disciplines.
Formal future 'shall', advanced terms 'ramifications', 'paradigm shift'.
Common Collocations
Idioms & Expressions
"talk something over"
To discuss something thoroughly, especially a problem or decision, in order to reach an agreement or understanding.
We need to talk over this issue before we present it to the boss.
neutral/casual"hash something out"
To discuss a problem or disagreement in detail until it is resolved.
The team stayed late to hash out the final details of the project plan.
informal"chew the fat"
To have a long, relaxed, and informal conversation about unimportant things.
My grandfather loves to sit on the porch and chew the fat with his neighbors.
very casual"leave no stone unturned"
Although not directly using 'discuss', this idiom implies a thorough investigation which often involves discussion.
We'll leave no stone unturned in our efforts to find a solution.
neutral"beat around the bush"
To avoid talking about the main subject directly; the opposite of a clear discussion.
Stop beating around the bush and tell me what happened!
neutral/casual"get straight to the point"
To start talking about the most important subject immediately, without delay.
In this meeting, let's get straight to the point.
neutralEasily Confused
Both involve talking about a topic, often with differing views.
'Discuss' is broader and can be collaborative or analytical. 'Debate' implies a more formal, structured argument between opposing sides.
We discussed the movie's plot. (Exchange of opinions). The candidates debated economic policy. (Formal arguments).
Both can involve disagreements.
'Discuss' aims for understanding or resolution through exchanging ideas. 'Argue' often implies conflict, strong disagreement, or trying to prove a point forcefully.
They discussed how to fix the car. (Collaborative). They argued about who should pay for the repairs. (Conflict).
Both mean to communicate verbally.
'Talk' is general. 'Discuss' implies a more focused, detailed, or serious conversation about a specific subject, often with a purpose.
Let's talk. (General). Let's discuss the project details. (Specific purpose).
Both involve conveying information.
'Explain' focuses on making something clear or understandable, usually by one person. 'Discuss' involves a two-way exchange of ideas or information.
The teacher explained the grammar rule. (One person clarifying). The students discussed the grammar rule. (Interaction).
Sentence Patterns
Subject + discuss + noun/noun phrase
We will discuss the budget.
Subject + discuss + wh-clause
They discussed what to do next.
Subject + discuss + with + someone
I need to discuss this with my manager.
Subject + discuss + noun phrase + regarding/concerning + noun phrase
The committee discussed the proposal regarding the new policy.
It + is + adjective + to discuss + noun phrase
It is important to discuss potential risks.
Word Family
Nouns
Related
How to Use It
Formality Scale
Common Mistakes
'Discuss' is a transitive verb that means 'to talk about'. Adding 'about' is redundant. It's like saying 'talk about about'.
While 'discuss' can be used informally, 'chat' or 'talk' are often more appropriate for light, friendly conversations.
'Discuss' implies exchanging ideas, while 'argue' often suggests disagreement or conflict.
'Discuss' usually requires a direct object. You don't just 'discuss'; you 'discuss a topic'.
If one person is talking *at* a group without much interaction, 'present' or 'explain' might be more accurate than 'discuss'.
Tips
Memory Palace Trick
Imagine a 'discussion' forum. In the center, see people 'shaking apart' (dis-cuss) a big topic.
When Native Speakers Use It
Native speakers use 'discuss' frequently in meetings ('Let's discuss the agenda'), when planning ('We need to discuss our weekend'), and when analyzing ('The critics discussed the film's themes').
Cultural Insight
In many Western cultures, effective 'discussion' skills are key to collaboration. Being able to articulate your points clearly and listen actively is highly valued.
Grammar Shortcut
Remember: 'Discuss' is like 'talk about'. So, you 'discuss the problem', not 'discuss about the problem'.
Say It Right
Focus on stressing the second syllable: dis-CUSS. Make the final 's' sound like a 'z' (dis-CUZZ).
Don't Make This Mistake
Avoid saying 'discuss about'. It's a common error, but grammatically incorrect. Just say 'discuss'.
Did You Know?
The Latin root 'discutere' meant 'to shake apart'. This hints at breaking down a topic to examine it closely!
Study Smart
When you learn a new word, try to find 3-5 different collocations (word pairings) for it. For 'discuss', try 'discuss plans', 'discuss issues', 'discuss findings'.
Formal vs. Informal
Use 'discuss' in most situations. For very formal settings, consider 'deliberate' or 'address'. For very casual chats, use 'chat' or 'talk'.
Expand Your Vocabulary
Learn related words like 'discussion' (noun) and 'discourse' (more formal, written/spoken communication).
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Think of 'dis-' like 'different' ideas and '-cuss' like 'discussion'. So, you're discussing different ideas.
Visual Association
Imagine two people sitting at a table, shaking hands (like 'shake apart') while talking animatedly about a document.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to use 'discuss' three times today in different contexts: once about a work topic, once about a personal plan, and once about something you read.
Word Origin
Latin
Original meaning: To shake apart, to strike down, to examine.
Cultural Context
When discussing sensitive topics (e.g., politics, religion, personal issues), politeness, respect for differing opinions, and active listening are crucial in most English-speaking cultures.
In English-speaking cultures, the ability to 'discuss' effectively is highly valued in professional and academic settings. It's seen as a sign of critical thinking and collaboration. However, directness can vary; sometimes people might 'discuss' issues indirectly to avoid confrontation.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Workplace Meetings
- Let's discuss the agenda.
- We need to discuss the project's progress.
- Can we discuss the budget allocation?
Academic Settings
- The lecture will discuss...
- Students were asked to discuss the themes.
- We need to discuss the findings of the study.
Personal Relationships
- We need to discuss our future.
- Let's discuss our feelings about this.
- Can we discuss this problem calmly?
Problem Solving
- Let's discuss how to solve this.
- We need to discuss the options available.
- They discussed ways to improve efficiency.
Conversation Starters
"What are your thoughts on the current news about...?"
"Have you had a chance to think about the proposal we discussed?"
"I wanted to discuss a few ideas I had for the upcoming event."
"What do you think about the book/movie we both experienced?"
"Let's discuss the best approach to tackle this challenge."
Journal Prompts
Describe a time you had an important discussion that led to a positive outcome.
What topics do you find most challenging to discuss openly?
Reflect on a recent discussion you had. What did you learn from it?
How can you improve your ability to discuss difficult subjects respectfully?
Frequently Asked Questions
8 questions'Discuss' generally involves exchanging ideas and information, often collaboratively. 'Debate' typically involves presenting opposing arguments formally, often with a winner or loser in mind.
No, it's considered redundant. 'Discuss' already means 'to talk about'. Simply say 'discuss the topic'.
Not usually. While a discussion might involve disagreements, 'discuss' implies a more reasoned exchange. 'Argue' is the word for a heated disagreement.
People discuss plans, problems, issues, ideas, findings, strategies, news, books, movies, and many other topics.
No, 'discuss' can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, in very casual settings, 'chat' or 'talk' might be more common.
The noun form is 'discussion'.
While you can mentally 'discuss' things with yourself, in common usage, 'discuss' implies interaction with at least one other person.
In formal settings, 'deliberate', 'examine', 'consider', or 'address' can be good synonyms depending on the specific context.
Test Yourself
Let's ______ the game.
We use 'discuss' to talk about a topic, like a game.
What does it mean to 'discuss'?
'Discuss' means to talk about something with others.
You should say 'discuss about the problem'.
The verb 'discuss' already means 'to talk about', so adding 'about' is redundant.
Word
Meaning
These pairs show common phrases using the verb 'discuss'.
The correct sentence is 'We need to discuss this.'
The committee will ______ the proposed changes.
Committees typically discuss proposals before making decisions.
Which sentence uses 'discuss' most formally?
Option 3 uses formal vocabulary ('theoretical implications') and context (academic paper), making it the most formal usage.
The word 'discuss' can sometimes imply a rigorous, analytical examination of complex concepts in academic writing.
In advanced contexts, 'discuss' can mean a deep, critical analysis, not just casual talk.
After the presentation, the audience was invited to ______ the speaker's ideas.
An audience typically discusses ideas presented to them.
My friend and I ______ our homework.
Friends often talk about or 'discuss' their homework together.
Score: /10
Summary
Discuss means to talk about something thoughtfully, sharing ideas and information.
- Verb: To talk about a subject in detail.
- Commonly used in formal and informal settings.
- Avoid the redundant phrase 'discuss about'.
- Implies an exchange of ideas, often with a purpose.
Memory Palace Trick
Imagine a 'discussion' forum. In the center, see people 'shaking apart' (dis-cuss) a big topic.
When Native Speakers Use It
Native speakers use 'discuss' frequently in meetings ('Let's discuss the agenda'), when planning ('We need to discuss our weekend'), and when analyzing ('The critics discussed the film's themes').
Cultural Insight
In many Western cultures, effective 'discussion' skills are key to collaboration. Being able to articulate your points clearly and listen actively is highly valued.
Grammar Shortcut
Remember: 'Discuss' is like 'talk about'. So, you 'discuss the problem', not 'discuss about the problem'.
Example
私たちはその問題について議論した。
Related Content
This Word in Other Languages
More media words
共有する
A2To share; to let others use or have access to something.
配信する
A2To distribute; to stream; to send out information or content.
出版
B1The preparation and issuing of a book, journal, or piece of music for public sale or distribution.
読者
A2Reader; a person who reads or is fond of reading.
配信
A2Distribution; streaming; sending out content, especially digitally.
視聴
A2Watching and listening; the act of viewing and hearing broadcast content.
録画
A2Video recording; the act of recording moving images.
放送する
A2To broadcast; to transmit a program by radio or television.
批評する
A2To criticize; to review; to evaluate a work of art or literature.
撮影する
A2To photograph; to film; to record images with a camera.
