di ‧ scus ‧ sion S2 W1 /dɪˈskʌʃ ə n/ BrE AmE noun [uncountable and countable]
1 . when you discuss something:
class discussions
the topics suggested for discussion
discussion of
the discussion of important issues
discussion about
high-level discussions about trade and commerce
discussion with
The embassy will continue discussions with the Chinese government.
We have had discussions about her legal situation.
under discussion (=being discussed)
The project is under discussion as a possible joint venture.
2 . a piece of writing about a subject that considers different ideas or opinions about it
discussion of
the report’s discussion of the legislation
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THESAURUS
▪ discussion an occasion when you discuss something, or the process of discussing it:
After a long discussion, they decided to paint the room pale blue.
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This led to a discussion of our favourite books.
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There are several projects under discussion (=being discussed) .
▪ debate discussion of a particular subject that often continues for a long time, in which people express different opinions. Also used to mean a formal discussion of a subject, after which people vote for or against something:
There is a lot of debate about the safety of nuclear power.
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The student union is holding a debate on immigration.
▪ talks formal discussions between governments, organizations etc:
the Arab-Israeli peace talks
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The next round of trade talks will be held in the spring.
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Bilateral talks (=between two groups or countries) on refugees took place in November.
▪ negotiations official discussions between two or more groups who are trying to agree on something:
The two sides have begun negotiations aimed at ending the dispute.
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International negotiations on reducing sulphur dioxide emissions have ended without agreement.
▪ conference a large formal meeting at which people from many places discuss their work or research, or important matters relating to their organization:
an international conference on nuclear physics
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the Labour Party conference
▪ consultation a formal discussion in which people who are affected by or involved in something can give their opinions:
The govenment promised a full public consultation before a decision was made to build the airport.
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The revised syllabus was devised after wide consultations with the teaching profession.