Verbs for Negotiation and Discussion

to discuss the terms of an agreement or try to reach one

The diplomats spent days negotiating the terms of the peace treaty between the two countries.

to tell someone about the feelings or ideas that we have

He talked to his friend about his recent breakup.

to come to an agreement after a dispute by reducing demands

In a business negotiation, both parties compromised on pricing to secure a mutually beneficial deal.

to negotiate the terms of a contract, sale, or similar arrangement for a better agreement, price, etc.

The customers decided to bargain with the vendor to get a better price for the antique furniture.

to discuss the terms of an agreement with an opposing side, usually an enemy

The opposing military generals agreed to parley in hopes of reaching a ceasefire agreement.

to negotiate, typically over the price of goods or services

I don’t like to haggle; I prefer paying the price listed.

to engage in casual or idle conversation

As they sat around the campfire, they chaffered late into the night, sharing stories and laughter.

to negotiate with someone, particularly about the price of something

The couple decided to dicker with the real estate agent to get a better deal on their dream home.

a person whose job is to sell and buy assets and goods for other people

to officially resolve a disagreement between people

The two companies, unable to reach an agreement, decided to have a third party arbitrate their dispute.

a tight or amorous embrace

to talk about something with someone, often in a formal manner

He wanted to discuss his concerns with the manager before making a formal complaint.

a discussion about a particular issue between two opposing sides, mainly held publicly

The candidates participated in a televised debate to present their views on economic policy.

to provide a valid reason or explanation for an action, decision, or belief, usually something that others consider wrong

She had to justify her choice to pursue a career in the arts to her parents, emphasizing her passion and long-term goals.

a rational motive or cause for a belief, decision, or action

to make something clear and easy to understand by giving more information about it

He explained the plot of the movie to his friend who hadn't seen it.

to provide explanations or reasons for a particular situation or set of circumstances

In the report, the analyst will account for the recent decline in sales.

to create reasonable explanations for behaviors, decisions, or actions, especially when they may not truly represent the real motives

Faced with a late project submission, he attempted to rationalize it by blaming external factors beyond his control.

to discuss thoroughly and understand all the details of something

Let's talk through the steps for implementing this new process.

to thoroughly discuss something, particularly to reach an agreement or make a decision

Let's talk the new project over before making any decisions.