discuss it over

USAGE SUMMARY

"discuss it over" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used in contexts where two or more people are discussing a topic, often used when moving from a general discussion into discussing the details of a topic. Example: "We can't decide which software to purchase for the project. Let's discuss it over lunch so we can figure out the best option."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

He does not want to discuss it over breakfast but Kelly, his wife, knows when his smiles are forced.

The Times

She said she was too old to walk around her garden with him, but he should pick a leaf of any plant that interested him and they could discuss it over a cup of tea.

The Economist

They can't discuss it over drinks with their favorite ex-Clinton staffer, or wait for a white paper from Larry Summers, or see how their peers behave before making a commitment.

Huffington Post

Shall we discuss it over a couple of Salvadors at your Miners' Welfare Club?

The Guardian - Opinion

Each week, the group would read a book from a different culture and discuss it over lunch.

The New Yorker

I want her to be a woman who can not only do this, but who can discuss it over lunch with her friends.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

He and I discussed it over quite a long period, but somehow, the time was never right for me to move it forward – something I deeply regret now.

The Guardian - Film

He proposed discussing it over lunch.

The New Yorker

"I remember all of us discussing it over dinner," recalled Deb Galloway, Chuck Stafford's sister.

The New York Times

This is what happened when we watched it and discussed it over IM.

The New Yorker

They discussed it over the phone and then Jane crossed out several provisions, signed it, and faxed it back to Kevin.

Harvard University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "discuss it over" when you want to emphasize that the discussion will occur during a meal or drinks, creating a relaxed and social atmosphere for the conversation.

Common error

While "discuss it over" is correct, avoid using it too frequently in your writing. Vary your sentence structure by using alternative phrases like "talk about it" or "deliberate on it" to prevent monotony.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "discuss it over" functions as a phrasal verb. It describes the action of talking about something while simultaneously engaging in another activity, typically eating or drinking. Ludwig highlights that the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Academia

16%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "discuss it over" is a grammatically sound and usable phrasal verb that implies a conversation occurring during a meal or while having drinks. According to Ludwig, the phrase is correct to use in written English. While not overly formal, it is suitable for general conversation and neutral writing contexts, with particular prevalence in News & Media. When aiming for more formal tones, consider more structured synonyms. Though examples are limited, consistency and reliability are confirmed by reputable sources.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

talk about it

Focuses on the act of talking without the implication of doing so while eating or drinking.

chat about it

Implies a more informal and casual discussion.

deliberate on it

Suggests a more formal and considered discussion.

go over it

Focuses on reviewing or examining something in detail.

hash it out

Implies a potentially difficult or contentious discussion aimed at resolving differences.

chew it over

Suggests a thoughtful and considered reflection before discussion.

consult on it

Implies seeking expert advice or opinion before discussing it.

review it

Implies a structured and formal examination.

examine it

Suggests a careful and detailed inspection.

analyze it

Implies a systematic and detailed analysis.

FAQs

How can I use "discuss it over" in a sentence?

You can use "discuss it over" in sentences like, "Let's "discuss it over" dinner" or "We should "discuss it over" a cup of coffee."

What's the difference between "discuss it" and "discuss it over"?

"Discuss it" is a general term for talking about something. "Discuss it over" specifies that the discussion will happen during a meal or drinks, adding a social or relaxed element.

What can I say instead of "discuss it over"?

You can use alternatives such as "talk about it", "go over it", or "chat about it" depending on the context.

Is "discuss it over" appropriate for formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "discuss it over" leans toward a neutral or slightly informal tone. In formal writing, consider more direct phrases like "deliberate on it" or "examine it".