discuss

[dih-skuhs]

verb (used with object)

1. to consider or examine by argument, comment, etc.; talk over or write about, especially to explore solutions; debate.

   to discuss the proposed law on taxes.

   Synonyms: deliberate, reason

2. Civil Law.

   1. to collect a debt from (the person primarily liable) before proceeding against the person secondarily liable.

   2. to execute against the movable property of (a debtor) before proceeding against the debtor's immovable property, as land.

3. Rare.,  to consume (food or drink) enthusiastically.

4. Obsolete.,  to make known; reveal.

discuss

/ dɪˈskʌs /

verb

1. to have a conversation about; consider by talking over; debate

2. to treat (a subject) in speech or writing

   the first three volumes discuss basic principles

3. facetious,  to eat or drink with enthusiasm

Other Word Forms

• discussible adjective
• discussant noun
• discusser noun
• discussable adjective
• nondiscussible adjective
• overdiscuss verb (used with object)
• prediscuss verb (used with object)
• rediscuss verb (used with object)
• undiscussable adjective
• undiscussible adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of discuss¹

First recorded in 1300–50; Middle English, either from Anglo-French discusser or directly from Latin discussus “struck asunder, shaken, scattered,” past participle of discutere, equivalent to dis- dis- ¹ + -cutere (combining form of quatere “to shake, strike”)

Word History and Origins

Origin of discuss¹

C14: from Late Latin discussus examined, from discutere to investigate, from Latin: to dash to pieces, from _dis- ¹ + quatere to shake, strike

Example Sentences

The more sacralized a figure, the harder it becomes to discuss their flaws, mistakes or controversial actions.

From Salon

As they discussed her book, Evans and Harris shared a cheese and anchovies pizza.

From Los Angeles Times

Ms Edwards said the businesses were pleased to hear it was an option being discussed but believed there would be "logistical challenges".

From BBC

In a report, the council said its executive leadership team had met "Reform UK visitors" twice to discuss "potential opportunities to share data with third parties for the purpose of identifying efficiencies and potential savings".

From BBC

The promise came after Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham said there needs to be "a proper plan for the country" and revealed that some Labour MPs have contacted him to discuss the party leadership.

From BBC

Related Words

• argue 
• confer 
• consider 
• debate 
• deliberate 
• examine 
• explain 
• review 
• take up 

When To Use

What does discuss mean?

Discuss means to have a conversation about or talk about a particular topic, especially to examine it more closely, debate it, or figure out a solution.You can discuss something with another person or multiple people, or you can discuss something by talking or writing about it for an audience. Discuss tends to be used in contexts in which the topic is at least somewhat serious. The noun form of discuss is discussion.Example: Listen, class, the purpose of breaking into small groups is to discuss your projects—not to chat about your personal life.