discussion

A conversation in which people share ideas or opinions about a subject.

• We had a discussion about school.
• Their discussions helped solve the problem.
• Can we continue this discussion tomorrow?

How to use it: discussion about something (We had a discussion about our holiday plans.); discussion with someone (She had a discussion with her manager.); discussion of something (A discussion of the costs followed the presentation.)

Similar words: conversation, talk, debate

Common phrases: group discussion, discussion about something, hold a discussion, discussion of something

A piece of writing that explains or examines a subject in detail.

• The book includes a discussion of local history.
• Read the discussion at the end of the chapter.
• Her essay offers a detailed discussion of the painting.

How to use it: discussion of something (This chapter contains a discussion of animal behavior.)

Similar words: analysis, examination, account

Common phrases: detailed discussion, discussion of something, brief discussion