/ dɪˈskʌʃn; NAmE / noun [ U , C ]
1.
discussion (with sb) (about / on sb/sth) the process of discussing sb/sth; a conversation about sb/sth :
a topic / subject for discussion
After considerable discussion, they decided to accept our offer.
The plans have been under discussion (= being talked about) for a year now.
Discussions are still taking place between the two leaders.
We had a discussion with them about the differences between Britain and the US.
2.
discussion (of sth) a speech or a piece of writing that discusses many different aspects of a subject :
Her article is a discussion of the methods used in research.
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SYNONYMS
discussion
conversation ♦ dialogue ♦ talk ♦ consultation ♦ chat ♦ gossip
These are all words for a conversation about sth.
discussion
a detailed conversation about sth that is considered to be important:
Discussions are still taking place between the two leaders.
conversation
a talk, usually a private or informal one, involving two people or a small group; the activity of talking in this way:
a telephone conversation
dialogue
conversations in a book, play or film:
The novel has long descriptions and not much dialogue.
A dialogue is also a formal discussion between two groups, especially when they are trying to solve a problem or end a dispute:
The President told waiting reporters there had been a constructive dialogue.
talk
a conversation or discussion, often one about a problem or sth important for the people involved:
I had a long talk with my boss about my career prospects.
consultation
a formal discussion between groups of people before a decision is made about sth:
There have been extensive consultations between the two countries.
chat
a friendly informal conversation; informal talking.
NOTE
The countable use of chat is especially British English:
I just called in for a chat about the kids.
gossip
a conversation about other people and their private lives:
We had a good gossip about the boss.
PATTERNS AND COLLOCATIONS :
a discussion / conversation / dialogue / consultation / chat / gossip about sth
a discussion / conversation / dialogue / consultation on sth
in (close) discussion / conversation / dialogue / consultation with sb
a brief / short / long discussion / conversation / talk / consultation / chat / gossip
to have a discussion / conversation / dialogue / talk / consultation / chat / gossip with sb
to hold a discussion / conversation / dialogue / consultation
to bring a discussion / conversation around / round to...
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WORD ORIGIN
Middle English (denoting judicial examination): via Old French from late Latin discussio(n-) , from discutere investigate, from dis- apart + quatere shake.