mindmap root((讨论)) discuss implies a sifting of possibilities by presenting considerations pro and con: ~ed the need for widening the expressway. argue implies the often heated offering of reasons or evidence in support of convictions already held: ~d that the project would be too costly. debate suggests formal or public argument between opposing parties: ~d the merits of the proposed constitutional amendment; it may also apply to deliberation with oneself: I'm ~ing whether I should go. dispute implies contentious or heated argument: scientists ~ the reasons for the extinction of the dinosaurs.