Describe vs. Discuss

Attribute	Describe	Discuss
Definition	Provide a detailed explanation or account of something.	Talk about a topic or issue in detail, considering different perspectives and providing analysis.
Focus	Emphasizes on providing a clear and accurate depiction of a subject.	Emphasizes on exploring and analyzing a subject from various angles.
Depth	Can be concise or detailed, depending on the context and purpose.	Typically requires a more in-depth and comprehensive approach.
Objective	Primarily aims to convey information or facts.	Primarily aims to encourage critical thinking and exchange of ideas.
Tone	Can be neutral or subjective, depending on the context and purpose.	Can be analytical, persuasive, or exploratory, depending on the context and purpose.
Structure	May follow a chronological, sequential, or thematic structure.	May follow a structured or unstructured format, often including multiple viewpoints.
Examples	Describing the features of a product, summarizing a book, explaining a scientific concept.	Discussing the pros and cons of a political policy, analyzing a literary work, debating ethical dilemmas.

Introduction

When it comes to academic writing, two commonly used verbs are "describe" and "discuss." While they may seem similar at first glance, they have distinct attributes that set them apart. In this article, we will explore the differences between these two verbs and understand when to use each one effectively.

Definition and Purpose

Describe: To describe means to provide a detailed account or explanation of something. It involves presenting facts, characteristics, or features in a clear and concise manner. Describing focuses on providing a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter without offering personal opinions or analysis.

Discuss: On the other hand, discussing involves examining a topic or issue from different perspectives, analyzing its various aspects, and presenting arguments or opinions. Unlike describing, discussing requires critical thinking and the ability to evaluate different viewpoints, supporting them with evidence or logical reasoning.

Approach

Describe: When asked to describe a topic, the approach should be objective and factual. Describing requires providing a step-by-step account or a detailed overview of the subject matter. It is important to avoid personal biases or opinions and focus solely on presenting the information in a clear and concise manner.

Discuss: Conversely, discussing requires a more subjective approach. It involves presenting different viewpoints, analyzing their strengths and weaknesses, and offering personal opinions or arguments. Discussing encourages critical thinking and the ability to evaluate multiple perspectives, allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of the topic.

Language and Tone

Describe: When describing, the language used should be precise, objective, and free from any emotional or biased language. The tone should be neutral and focused on presenting the facts accurately. Descriptive writing aims to provide a clear picture of the subject matter without influencing the reader's opinion.

Discuss: In contrast, discussing allows for a more subjective language and tone. It is acceptable to use persuasive language, present arguments, and express personal opinions. The tone can be more engaging and passionate, as the goal is to convince the reader of a particular viewpoint or interpretation.

Structure

Describe: Descriptive writing often follows a logical and systematic structure. It may involve organizing the information chronologically, spatially, or by using other appropriate methods. The structure should be clear and easy to follow, allowing the reader to grasp the subject matter without confusion.

Discuss: On the other hand, discussing may not follow a strict structure. It allows for a more flexible approach, where ideas can be presented in a way that best supports the arguments or opinions being discussed. However, it is still important to maintain coherence and ensure that the reader can follow the flow of ideas.

Examples

Describe: To illustrate the concept of describing, let's consider an example. If asked to describe a sunset, one might provide details about the colors in the sky, the position of the sun, the changing hues, and the overall atmosphere. The goal is to paint a vivid picture in the reader's mind, allowing them to visualize the sunset without any personal interpretation or analysis.

Discuss: In contrast, discussing a sunset would involve exploring different perspectives and opinions. One might discuss the emotional impact of a sunset, its symbolism in literature or art, or even debate the scientific explanation behind the colors observed. The goal is to engage the reader in a deeper analysis and encourage critical thinking.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while both "describe" and "discuss" are important verbs in academic writing, they have distinct attributes that set them apart. Describing focuses on presenting facts objectively and providing a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter, while discussing involves analyzing different viewpoints, presenting arguments, and encouraging critical thinking. Understanding the differences between these two verbs is crucial in effectively conveying information and engaging readers in academic discourse.