讨论 (tǎo lùn) is a verb meaning 'to discuss' or 'to talk something over thoroughly.' The character 讨 (tǎo) originally meant 'to investigate' or 'to seek,' and 论 (lùn) means 'to analyze,' 'to comment on,' or 'to reason about.' Together, they convey the idea of jointly examining ideas, exchanging viewpoints, and reasoning through an issue. It implies active participation, mutual exchange, and often a purpose—such as reaching consensus, solving a problem, or deepening understanding.

This word is commonly used in academic, professional, and everyday contexts—whether students discussing a textbook passage, colleagues reviewing project plans, or friends debating travel options. It suggests a relatively formal or thoughtful level of conversation, not casual chit-chat. While it can appear as a noun ('a discussion'), its primary function is verbal, and it typically takes an object (e.g., 讨论问题, 讨论方案). It's neutral in register but sounds more deliberate and serious than simpler verbs like 聊 (liáo, 'to chat').