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open discussion

open discussion

8 3.3
A conversation where people share ideas honestly without holding back
  • noun
translation icon : discusión abierta
  • Well, since this is an open discussion, shall we ask our good friend here his opinion on the general problems of divorce?
  • forum for open discussion
  • foster open discussion
  • allows for more open discussion

We've got to have a, an open discussion of this.

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Examples

  • A classroom becomes democratic as the students feel free to think, be creative, and conduct open discussions.

    Academic text (2008)
  • Seeking ways to counter this threat, Emperor Shenzong called for open discussions of foreign affairs.

    Academic text (2018)
  • Normally, he visited for a couple of hours, gave a short speech, and invited open discussions.

    Academic text (1997)
  • The body could meet regularly to exchange information and negotiate outstanding claims in an open discussion.

    Academic text (2008)
  • My suggestion of an open discussion reflected my concern for academic freedom and the free exchange of ideas.

    Academic text (2003)
  • Each of these talks was followed by an open discussion, which was always courteous and friendly.

    Academic text (2010)
  • Some groups tend to rely on relatively unstructured, open discussion; others follow a more structured format.

    Academic text (1993)
  • Attendees have witnessed open discussions that were remarkably free of hidden agendas, secrets, and manipulation.

    Academic text (1998)
  • I think it's time for us to have an open discussion about our differing views on climate change.

  • During the meeting, there will be an open discussion where everyone can share their opinions freely.

Synonyms

conversation
vsopen discussion
1.0

A talk between two or more people to share news and ideas

is more about open, candid expression than casual chat
discussion
vsopen discussion
1.4

A conversation where people share ideas and opinions to decide or understand

is about honest, unrestricted expression of opinions rather than formal debate
talk
vsopen discussion
947 1.0

A discussion where people share ideas or feelings

is specifically about honest, unrestrained sharing of opinions
discourse
vsopen discussion
  • Formal
122 6.4

Speech or writing about a topic

is less formal and stresses frank, unrestricted opinion exchange
airing
vsopen discussion
14 4.5

A public discussion where people openly share different views

is focused on free and honest expression regardless of audience
robust discussion
vsopen discussion
1 4.1

A lively, strong talk where people share honest, clear opinions

is more about frank, open sharing without restraint

Antonyms

gag rule
  • Formal
5 8.6

A rule that stops people in a committee or parliament from talking about a topic

How Open

open discussion
8 3.3
real talk
  • Slang
9 7.7
closed session
  • Formal
8 5.5

Surface Forms

Morphology

open + discussion

The meaning 'a conversation where people express ideas honestly and without restraint' is directly and predictably derived from combining 'open' (candid, receptive) with 'discussion' (a talk where opinions are shared). This adjective+noun composition follows normal English semantics and is cross-linguistically common, so a B1 learner who knows both constituents will understand it.

Etymology

Open discussion may come from the simple image of a room with an open door where anyone can walk in and join a discussion. Because the door is open, people can share ideas 'honestly and without restraint', so the phrase means a talk where everyone can speak freely.