Is It Correct to Say ‘discuss about’?

No, it is not correct to say “discuss about.” The verb “discuss” is a transitive verb, which means it takes a direct object without a preposition. The correct phrasing is simply “discuss something.” Saying “discuss about” is a common grammar error that makes your English sound unnatural. This guide explains why the mistake happens, how to fix it, and what to use instead in formal writing, emails, and everyday conversation.

Quick Answer: Use ‘Discuss’ Without ‘About’

Always use “discuss” directly followed by the topic. For example, say “We need to discuss the budget” instead of “We need to discuss about the budget.” If you want to use the word “about,” choose a different verb such as “talk about,” “speak about,” or “read about.”

Why ‘Discuss About’ Is a Mistake

The verb “discuss” already includes the idea of talking about something in detail. Adding “about” is redundant and grammatically incorrect. Think of it like the verb “enter.” You would not say “enter into the room” because “enter” already means to go into a place. Similarly, “discuss” already means to talk about a subject. The direct object follows immediately after the verb.

Formal vs. Informal Context

In formal writing, such as business reports, academic papers, or professional emails, using “discuss about” will immediately mark you as a non-native speaker or careless writer. In informal conversation, some native speakers might occasionally say “discuss about” in very casual speech, but it is still considered a mistake. To sound natural and correct in all situations, drop the “about.”

Comparison Table: Correct vs. Incorrect Usage

Natural Examples

Here are sentences that show how to use “discuss” correctly in different situations.

• We will discuss the new policy during the next meeting.
• Can we discuss your proposal after lunch?
• The committee discussed the budget for three hours.
• I would like to discuss the results of the survey with you.
• They discussed the best way to handle customer complaints.

Common Mistakes

Below are frequent errors learners make with “discuss” and how to fix them.

• Mistake: Let’s discuss about the schedule. Correction: Let’s discuss the schedule.
• Mistake: She discussed about the new software. Correction: She discussed the new software.
• Mistake: We need to discuss about the deadline. Correction: We need to discuss the deadline.
• Mistake: He discussed about the changes in the contract. Correction: He discussed the changes in the contract.
• Mistake: They discussed about the marketing strategy. Correction: They discussed the marketing strategy.

Better Alternatives: When to Use ‘Talk About’ or ‘Speak About’

If you feel the need to use “about,” choose a different verb. “Talk about,” “speak about,” “read about,” and “write about” are all correct because these verbs are intransitive and require a preposition to connect to the object. Use these alternatives when you want a more conversational tone or when the verb “discuss” feels too formal.

• Talk about: We talked about the project for an hour. (Informal, conversation)
• Speak about: The professor spoke about climate change. (Semi-formal, lecture)
• Read about: I read about the new regulations. (Informal or formal)
• Write about: She wrote about her experience in the report. (Formal writing)

When to Use ‘Discuss’ vs. ‘Talk About’

Use “discuss” when the conversation is serious, detailed, or professional. Use “talk about” for casual, everyday conversations. For example, you would “discuss the terms of the contract” in a business meeting, but you would “talk about your weekend plans” with a friend. The nuance is about formality and depth of conversation.

Mini Practice Section

Test your understanding by choosing the correct option for each sentence. Answers are below.

1. We need to __________ the new policy before the deadline.
   a) discuss about
   b) discuss
   c) discuss on
2. Can we __________ the results of the test?
   a) talk about
   b) discuss about
   c) discuss on
3. She __________ the issue with her manager yesterday.
   a) discussed about
   b) discussed
   c) discussed on
4. They __________ the proposal for two hours.
   a) talked about
   b) discussed about
   c) discussed

Answers

1. b) discuss
2. a) talk about (or “discuss” is also correct, but “talk about” is natural here)
3. b) discussed
4. c) discussed (or a) talked about, but “discussed” is more precise)

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is ‘discuss about’ ever acceptable in any context?

No, “discuss about” is not grammatically correct in standard English. Even in very casual speech, it is considered a mistake. Stick to “discuss something” or use “talk about” if you need the preposition.

2. What is the difference between ‘discuss’ and ‘debate’?

“Discuss” means to talk about something in a detailed way, often to share ideas or reach an understanding. “Debate” means to argue about a topic, usually with opposing viewpoints. Both are transitive verbs and do not take “about.”

3. Can I use ‘discuss on’ or ‘discuss over’?

No, “discuss on” and “discuss over” are also incorrect. You might hear “discuss over coffee” as a fixed phrase meaning “while having coffee,” but the verb still takes a direct object: “We discussed the plan over coffee.” The “over” refers to the setting, not the object.

4. How can I remember to avoid ‘discuss about’?

Think of “discuss” as a verb that already contains the meaning of “talk about.” If you add “about,” you are repeating the idea. A simple memory trick: “discuss” = “talk about,” so do not say “talk about about.”

Final Tip for Real Writing and Conversation

When you write an email or speak in a meeting, always check if you have used “discuss about.” Replace it with “discuss” alone. If you are unsure, use “talk about” or “speak about” instead. This small change will make your English sound much more natural and professional. For more help with common grammar mistakes, explore our Grammar Accuracy Checks section. You can also visit our FAQ page for additional questions or contact us if you need further clarification.