Guide 66 / 200 6 swaps Formal register
Professional words for “discuss”
Five verbs for different kinds of discussion.
i · When it mattersTwo lines, no filler
Each verb sets expectations: "address" says we will tackle the issue; "deliberate" says we will weigh it carefully; "review" says we will go over existing material.
ii · The swaps6 ways
- 01Address formal
tackle a topic directly
Address the concerns raised in the audit.
- 02Examine formal
go through carefully
Examine the proposal clause by clause.
- 03Deliberate formal
weigh with care, often by a body
The committee deliberated on the policy change.
- 04Consider formal
give thought to
Consider the downstream implications.
- 05Review neutral
go over existing material
Review the contract before Friday.
- 06Confer formal
meet to discuss
Confer with legal before we decide.