Better Way to Say ‘discuss about’ in English

If you have ever written or said “discuss about,” you have made a very common English error. The direct answer is that “discuss about” is grammatically incorrect. The verb “discuss” is transitive, which means it does not need a preposition like “about” after it. The correct and better way to say it is simply “discuss” followed directly by the topic. For example, instead of saying “We discussed about the project,” you should say “We discussed the project.” This guide will explain why this mistake happens, give you natural alternatives, and help you use the correct form in emails, conversations, and formal writing.

Quick Answer: What to Say Instead of ‘discuss about’

Use “discuss” + topic directly. No preposition is needed.

• Incorrect: Let’s discuss about the budget.
• Correct: Let’s discuss the budget.

If you feel the need to use “about,” choose a different verb such as “talk about,” “speak about,” or “have a discussion about.”

Why ‘discuss about’ Is a Mistake

The verb “discuss” comes from Latin and means “to shake apart” or “to examine thoroughly.” In English, it is a transitive verb, which means it takes a direct object without a preposition. You cannot “discuss about something” any more than you can “mention about something” or “emphasize about something.” The word “about” is already implied in the meaning of “discuss.” When you add “about,” you create a redundant phrase.

This mistake is very common among English learners because in many other languages, the equivalent verb does require a preposition. For example, in Spanish you say “discutir sobre” and in French you say “discuter de.” Learners often translate this structure directly into English, which produces the error.

Comparison Table: ‘discuss about’ vs. Correct Alternatives

Natural Examples of Correct Usage

Here are real-world examples showing how to use “discuss” correctly in different situations.

In Professional Emails

• Correct: “We need to discuss the marketing strategy in our next meeting.”
• Correct: “I would like to discuss your proposal further.”
• Incorrect: “We need to discuss about the marketing strategy.”

In Casual Conversation

• Correct: “Let’s discuss what we should do this weekend.”
• Correct: “They discussed the movie for hours.”
• Incorrect: “Let’s discuss about what we should do.”

In Formal Writing

• Correct: “The committee will discuss the budget allocation.”
• Correct: “This chapter discusses the causes of climate change.”
• Incorrect: “This chapter discusses about the causes.”

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Learners often make these related errors. Watch out for them.

• Mistake 1: Using “discuss about” in any context. Always remove “about.”
• Mistake 2: Using “discuss on” or “discuss over.” These are also incorrect. Say “discuss the topic,” not “discuss on the topic.”
• Mistake 3: Using “discuss” with “regarding” or “concerning.” For example, “We discussed regarding the contract” is wrong. Say “We discussed the contract.”
• Mistake 4: Forgetting that “discussion” (the noun) does take “about.” You can say “We had a discussion about the project.” The error only applies to the verb “discuss.”

Better Alternatives and When to Use Them

If you are unsure whether to use “discuss” or another phrase, here are your best options.

Use “discuss” + object

When to use it: In all formal and most informal situations. It is the most direct and professional choice.

Example: “We discussed the quarterly results.”

Use “talk about”

When to use it: In casual conversations, friendly emails, or when you want a softer tone.

Example: “Let’s talk about your vacation plans.”

Use “speak about”

When to use it: When you want to sound slightly more formal than “talk about,” especially in presentations or public speaking.

Example: “The CEO will speak about the company vision.”

Use “have a discussion about”

When to use it: When you want to emphasize the process of exchanging ideas, often in academic or professional contexts.

Example: “We had a productive discussion about the new policy.”

Use “go over”

When to use it: In informal team settings when reviewing details.

Example: “Let’s go over the agenda before the meeting.”

Mini Practice: Test Yourself

Choose the correct option for each sentence. Answers are below.

1. We need to __________ the new guidelines.
   • A) discuss about
   • B) discuss
   • C) discuss on
2. They __________ the problem for two hours.
   • A) discussed about
   • B) discussed
   • C) discussed on
3. Let’s __________ the schedule tomorrow.
   • A) talk about
   • B) discuss about
   • C) discuss on
4. She __________ the findings in her report.
   • A) discusses about
   • B) discusses
   • C) discusses on

Answers

1. B) discuss
2. B) discussed
3. A) talk about (or “discuss” – both are correct, but “talk about” is fine here)
4. B) discusses

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is “discuss about” ever correct in English?

No, “discuss about” is never grammatically correct. The verb “discuss” is transitive and does not require a preposition. However, the noun “discussion” can be followed by “about,” as in “We had a discussion about the topic.”

2. Can I say “discuss on” or “discuss over”?

No. “Discuss on” and “discuss over” are also incorrect. Use “discuss” directly with the topic. For example, say “discuss the matter,” not “discuss on the matter.”

3. What is the difference between “discuss” and “talk about”?

“Discuss” is more formal and implies a detailed examination of a topic. “Talk about” is more casual and general. In a business email, “discuss” is usually better. In a conversation with friends, “talk about” sounds natural.

4. How can I remember not to say “discuss about”?

Think of the verb “discuss” as similar to “mention” or “describe.” You would not say “mention about” or “describe about.” The same rule applies. Practice by writing sentences like “We discussed the plan” until it feels automatic.

Final Tip for Better English

To avoid this mistake in your writing and speaking, always check if you have added “about” after “discuss.” If you see it, delete “about.” If you want to keep “about,” change the verb to “talk,” “speak,” or “have a discussion.” This small change will make your English sound much more natural and professional. For more help with common English corrections, explore our Better English Corrections section. You can also review our FAQ for answers to other common questions.