Argue vs Debate vs Discuss: What’s the difference?

Many words in English are commonly confused by both those learning the language and native speakers alike. When it comes to expressing opinions or ideas, the words “argue”, “debate” and “discuss” are often used interchangeably. However, they have distinct meanings that should be understood in order to use them appropriately in a sentence. In this guide, we’ll take a look at the difference between “argue”, “debate” and “discuss” and how to use them correctly in a sentence when speaking or writing.

Check out other easily confused words in English by visiting this page. Teachers and students can download this guide as a PDF file using the link at the bottom of the page.

Argue

“Argue” is a verb that means to express a point of view or opinion with the aim of persuading someone else to accept it. It is a strong and forceful form of communication that often involves a conflict of ideas or interests. When we argue, we try to prove our point and convince the other person that our argument is correct. The tone of an argument is often confrontational, and it can lead to a heated discussion or disagreement. The object of “argue” is the topic being put forward, which is often introduced with a “that” clause. If you want to say who is involved in the argument in addition to the subject, you can connect that person using the preposition “with”.

How to use “argue” in a sentence:

1. She accepted the job offer.
2. He accepted the apology.
3. We accept all major credit cards.
4. The restaurant does not accept reservations.
5. I accept your challenge.
6. They accepted the terms of the contract.

Debate

“Debate” can be used as a noun or verb that refers to a formal or informal discussion between two or more people with different points of view. Unlike an argument, a debate is typically more structured and organised. Participants take turns presenting their ideas and responding to those of their opponents. The aim of a debate is to explore different perspectives and reach a conclusion or resolution. Debates can take place in various settings, including classrooms, political forums, and public events. As a verb, the direct object of “debate” is the theme of the debate. When used as a noun, “debate” can be followed by the preposition “about” or “over” to specify the theme.

How to use “debate” in a sentence:

1. Everyone was invited to the party except (for) Tom.
2. I like all fruits except (for) bananas.
3. It’s a great place to live except for the noise of the traffic.
4. The book is excellent except for the last chapter.
5. He studied hard every day except when he was sick. (used as a conjunction)
6. I would have enjoyed the movie, except that the sound quality was poor. (used as a conjunction)

Discuss

“Discuss” is a verb that means to talk about something in a detailed and thoughtful way. It is a more neutral and informal form of communication than arguing or debating. When we discuss, we exchange ideas and opinions with the aim of understanding each other’s viewpoints. The tone of a discussion is typically friendly and collaborative, and it can lead to new insights or solutions to a problem. The direct object of “discuss” is the theme of the discussion.

How to use “discuss” in a sentence:

1. Everyone was invited to the party except (for) Tom.
2. I like all fruits except (for) bananas.
3. It’s a great place to live except for the noise of the traffic.
4. The book is excellent except for the last chapter.
5. He studied hard every day except when he was sick. (used as a conjunction)
6. I would have enjoyed the movie, except that the sound quality was poor. (used as a conjunction)

Why are “argue”, “debate” and “discuss” commonly confused?

The words “argue”, “debate” and “discuss” are often confused because they all involve the exchange of ideas and opinions. However, the key difference lies in the level of formality and the tone of communication. Arguing is forceful and confrontational, while debating is more structured and aims to reach a conclusion. Discussing is neutral and collaborative, and it seeks to explore different perspectives. It is important to choose the right word for the right context to convey your message effectively.

Spanish speakers in particular may confuse the words as a heated disagreement between two people is “discutir”, which sounds like “discuss”, but in fact would translate as “argue”. Likewise, “argumentar” is a Spanish verb that is used more like “discuss” in English.

Summary

argue – a verb to express a point of view with the aim of persuading someone else to accept it, especially in a forceful or heated way

debate – a verb related to a formal or informal discussion between two or more people with different points of view, especially to reach a conclusion

discuss – a verb to talk about something in a detailed and thoughtful way to find out about others’ viewpoints

Do you know the difference between “argue”, “debate” and “discuss”?

Fill in the blanks in the following activity with the correct form of the word (“argue”, “debate” or “discuss”):

1. She will _____ the invitation to the party.
2. I like all vegetables _____ for broccoli.
3. The school _____ students from all backgrounds.
4. I cannot _____ your proposal in its current form.
5. Everyone _____ Paul was invited to the meeting.
6. The office is open every day _____ for weekends.
7. The company will not _____ any liability for the damage.
8. My boss explained everything, _____ what would happen if he was not available.
9. _____ for the last chapter, the book was interesting.
10. The hotel does not _____ cash payments.

Answers: 1. debate, 2. discuss, 3. argue, 4. debated, 5. argue, 6. discuss, 7. arguing, 8. debate, 9. discuss, 10. argued