Describe vs. Discuss: What's the Difference?
Edited by Aimie Carlson || By Janet White || Published on January 14, 2024
Describe involves detailing characteristics or features, while discuss means to examine or consider a topic in detail, often involving an exchange of ideas.
Key Differences
To describe something means to provide a detailed account or picture of it in words, focusing on characteristics, features, and aspects. This often includes using sensory details and adjectives to paint a picture for the listener or reader. Discussing, on the other hand, involves a two-way communication where a topic is examined from multiple angles, often involving questioning, debating, or exploring different perspectives.
Description is more about stating facts or observations. It's a one-dimensional presentation where the describer's role is to convey information as accurately as possible. Discussion is interactive and dynamic, involving back-and-forth communication where ideas are not just presented but also critiqued, analyzed, and expanded upon.
When one describes, the aim is often to inform or paint a picture. For example, an artist might describe a landscape by talking about colors, shapes, and textures. In contrast, to discuss the same landscape would involve exploring its significance, the feelings it evokes, or its place in the artistic tradition, potentially involving multiple viewpoints.
The process of describing does not necessarily involve seeking feedback or other opinions, whereas discussion inherently invites participation and the sharing of diverse opinions and insights. Description can be a part of discussion, but discussion goes beyond mere description by adding layers of interpretation, analysis, and dialogue.
Description tends to be more objective, focusing on observable attributes. Discussion is inherently more subjective, colored by the opinions, beliefs, and backgrounds of those involved in the conversation, making it a more complex and nuanced form of communication.
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Comparison Chart
Communication Style
One-way, informative
Two-way, interactive
Focus
Characteristics, features
Ideas, opinions, analysis
Aim
To inform or paint a picture
To explore, question, and understand
Nature
More objective and factual
More subjective and analytical
Involvement
Does not require feedback
Involves exchange of ideas and perspectives
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Describe and Discuss Definitions
Describe
To create a vivid mental picture through details.
He described the ancient city with such clarity.
Discuss
To debate or talk over.
They discussed the merits of public versus private education.
Describe
To represent or outline the characteristics of something.
The biologist described the new species in great detail.
Discuss
To bring up or identify issues for clarification.
The meeting discussed the challenges faced by the team.
Describe
To give an account of in words.
She described the sunset as a mix of orange and pink hues.
Discuss
To consider or examine by argument or from various points of view.
The committee discussed the new policy proposals.
Describe
To specify or identify features or components.
The manual described each part of the machinery.
Discuss
To talk about a topic in detail.
We will discuss the implications of this research.
Describe
To report what one has observed or experienced.
She described her journey through the mountains.
Discuss
To converse about, involving exchange of ideas.
We discussed our future plans extensively.
Describe
To give an account of in speech or writing
Describe a sea voyage.
Discuss
To speak with another or others about; talk over
Discussed the matter briefly.
Describe
To convey an idea or impression of; characterize
She described her childhood as a time of wonder and discovery.
Discuss
To examine or consider (a subject) in speech or writing
The book discusses the challenges that journalists face today.
FAQs
What is the purpose of discussion?
To examine and explore ideas or topics in detail.
Is describing a subjective process?
It tends to be more objective, focusing on observable facts.
Can describing involve personal opinions?
It's typically more about factual representation than personal opinions.
Are sensory details important in description?
Yes, they help create a vivid mental image.
Does discussion require more than one person?
Typically, yes, it involves an exchange of ideas among people.
Is it possible to describe without using adjectives?
Adjectives enhance descriptions but are not always necessary.
Does describing require a specific vocabulary?
It often benefits from precise and descriptive vocabulary.
Is listening important in discussion?
Yes, effective discussion involves both speaking and listening.
What is the main goal of describing?
To provide detailed information about characteristics or features.
Do discussions always involve debate?
Not always, but they often involve examining different viewpoints.
Can discussions lead to conclusions or decisions?
Yes, discussions often aim to reach a consensus or decision.
Are personal experiences relevant in discussions?
They can be, depending on the context of the discussion.
Is describing a skill that can be learned?
Yes, like many aspects of communication, it can be improved with practice.
Do discussions require a structured format?
Not always, but structure can help in formal or complex discussions.
Can a discussion be part of a formal meeting?
Yes, discussions are common in formal settings like meetings.
Can a person describe something they haven't experienced?
Yes, through research or second-hand accounts.
Should descriptions be concise or detailed?
It depends on the context; sometimes detail is necessary, other times conciseness is preferred.
Can discussions change opinions?
Yes, discussions can lead to new insights and perspective changes.
Is agreement necessary in a discussion?
Not necessarily; understanding different viewpoints is also a valuable outcome.
Can descriptions be purely factual?
Yes, especially in technical or scientific contexts.
About Author
Written by
Janet WhiteJanet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
Edited by
Aimie CarlsonAimie Carlson, holding a master's degree in English literature, is a fervent English language enthusiast. She lends her writing talents to Difference Wiki, a prominent website that specializes in comparisons, offering readers insightful analyses that both captivate and inform.
