English Reference

Word

discussed

Phoneticsdis·cussed, stress on the second syllable

US/dɪˈskəst/

UK/dɪskˈʌst/

Definitions

01talked about

A2 · Elementary

v. talked about something with another person or a group.

v. the past tense of 'discuss', indicating that a conversation or deliberation regarding a specific subject has already occurred.

“We discussed the new project during our lunch break yesterday.”

“The board of directors discussed the proposed merger for several hours before reaching a final consensus on the terms.”

Usage

This verb is transitive and must be followed directly by a noun or noun phrase without a preposition.

Pitfall

We discussed about the problem for an hour.

We discussed the problem for an hour.

The verb 'discuss' is transitive and takes a direct object. Do not use the preposition 'about' after it.

Synonyms

talked aboutdebatedexamined

02being talked about

B2 · Upper Intermediate Formal

adj. describes something that people are currently talking about or have already talked about.

adj. functioning as a participial adjective to describe a subject or topic that has been the object of deliberation.

“The most discussed topic at the meeting was the change in office hours.”

“The frequently discussed implications of the new policy have led to significant anxiety among the junior staff members.”

Usage

Often used in the superlative 'most discussed' or paired with adverbs like 'frequently' or 'widely'.

Synonyms

Antonyms

unmentioned

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.A2 KeyIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.3.0–4.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 2.0–2.524–43TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.225–549
Frequency
Common
Level
A2 · Elementary
Updated

QR code

englishreference.com/q/discussed

English Reference