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.
This led to a discussion of our favourite books.
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.
The student union is holding a debate on immigration.
talks formal discussions between governments, organizations etc:
the Arab-Israeli peace talks
The next round of trade talks will be held in the spring.
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.
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
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.
The revised syllabus was devised after wide consultations with the teaching profession.
discuss to talk seriously about problems, ideas, or plans:
They met to discuss how the building should be designed.
She refuses to discuss the matter.
talk something over to discuss something with someone because it will affect them, especially someone close to you:
Before you accept the job, talk it over with your family.
You two need to sit down and talk things over.

[TahlilGaran] English Thesaurus ▲