before discussion vs before the discussion

Both "before discussion" and "before the discussion" are correct, but they are used in different contexts. "Before discussion" is a more general reference to any discussion, while "before the discussion" refers to a specific discussion that has been previously mentioned or is known to both the speaker and the listener.

Explained by Camille
Editor at TextRanch

Last updated: March 27, 2025 • 5045 views

This phrase is correct and can be used in a general context to refer to any discussion.

"before discussion"

This phrase is used to indicate that something happens prior to any discussion taking place.

Examples:

Let's consider the options before discussion begins.
Please make your points before discussion starts.

Show examples from the web [+]

Any motion not on the agenda requires a second second before discussion.
I am nonetheless very grateful to Mr Färm for giving us this opportunity to consider our overall approach to the 2003 Budget year long before discussions on individual Budget lines take place.
It is somewhat premature to give details because if one starts going into detail now before discussions with the stakeholders, it could be somewhat alarmist, as always happens in fisheries.
This prevents old articles in a long thread from vanishing before the discussion has ended.
These basic standards must be met before a discussion on status can begin.
Budgetary implications are considered during the discussion process before adopting the Directive.
I thought you might want to be aware of this before the discussion and prize-giving ceremony tomorrow.
Obviously, it will be necessary to await the conclusions of this work before starting discussions on any possible measures.
I think that it erodes democracy if we reach an agreement even before the discussion in plenary.
This must occur before the discussions between the Council and Iran result in any form of agreement, of whatever kind it may be.
Jamie, we've had this discussion before.
Let's do open discussion before we wrap up.
We've had this discussion before. I remember giving you this examination.
In reality national parliaments are forced to establish corresponding legislation within two years, so that the essence of the decision to be taken there has already been established before public discussion of its desirability can get under way.
A procedure such as today's, with many important decisions being taken only in September and immediately before the discussions in the Committee on Budgets, is something we cannot accept.
I do not understand all the 'commotion' that the issue has caused, especially in French-speaking Belgium, amongst consumers' associations and mutual societies, supported by certain MEPs who, even before the discussions had started, had already condemned these two laws.
You also know because we've had this discussion before that if he got his way, they would rip that company to shreds.
The defense strenuously objects and requests an 802 conference... so that His Honor might have a chance to hear discussion before ruling.
I went to several of these discussions before I realized I was getting involved in a communist cell, and I dropped out.
What we now expect to see from Turkmenistan - before any further discussion on the PCA is possible - is significant progress on human rights.

Alternatives:

prior to discussion
pre-discussion
preliminary discussion
pre-discussion phase
pre-discussion activities

This phrase is correct and is used when referring to a specific discussion that has been previously mentioned or is known to both the speaker and the listener.

"before the discussion"

This phrase is used to indicate that something happens prior to a particular discussion that has been specified.

Examples:

Let's finalize the agenda before the discussion starts.
We need to gather more information before the discussion.

Show examples from the web [+]

I thought you might want to be aware of this before the discussion and prize-giving ceremony tomorrow.
I think that it erodes democracy if we reach an agreement even before the discussion in plenary.
This prevents old articles in a long thread from vanishing before the discussion has ended.

Alternatives:

prior to the discussion
preparing for the discussion
pre-discussion preparation
pre-discussion activities
pre-discussion briefing

How TextRanch works

Fast and reliable proofreading, editing, and language advice tailored to your needs.

1. Choose Your Service

Quick Text Editing

Emails and short texts
Proofreading & editing
Ready in 5-10 minutes

SUBMIT YOUR TEXT NOW

Document Editing

Documents of any type (*.docx)
Advanced & Premium editing
Ready in as little as 4 hours

UPLOAD YOUR DOCUMENT

Ask an Editor

Personalized answers to your language questions
Expert guidance on grammar, style, and usage
Ready in 24 hours

ASK YOUR QUESTION

Upload your document or paste your text directly into our platform. Your text is reviewed and refined by our expert editors (real people, not machines) who understand the nuances of English. Expect corrections, improvements, and insightful suggestions that enhance the clarity, tone, and professionalism of your writing.

3. Receive Your Polished Text

In just a few minutes (or hours for longer documents), you'll receive your corrected text. Review the changes, make any final adjustments, and confidently share your polished English with the world.
You can count on a personalized, friendly service every time you use TextRanch. We're committed to helping you make a great impression with every word you write.

We proofread and edit these types of texts and documents:

Short texts Business Emails Personal Emails Social media posts Resume and Curriculum Vitae Business documents Sales proposal Research and academic papers Thesis Dissertation Essays Articles Blog posts and much more....

Our Customers Love Us!

We have an average rating of 4.79 stars based on 283125 votes, and

4.9 Excellent - Reviews 2.137

"7 years without any disappointment. Always 100% satisfied. You guys are the best in the world at what you do. Thank you so much :)"

Zubair
from Bangladesh

"I wasn't aware of this service, it's fascinating and more reliable than standard IA tools available on the internet"

Arturo
from Mexico

"In a world of text messages and online communication, this is great to have as a live tool. Thank you."

Selena
from USA

"Wow, it's just so excellent. I never would have believed I could have a sure and excellent English companion. Thanks, TextRanch."

Ifiok
from Nigeria

"This is my first time using TextRanch, and I like how the editors take time to correct my text. To everyone who has never used TextRanch before, I highly recommend trying it."

Wilson
from France

"It is an amazing source of feedback because, as a non-native speaker, I really need to have a reliable helper correct my text."

Susan
from Germany

before discussion vs before the discussion

"before discussion"

"before the discussion"

Related Comparisons

2. Submit Your Text

3. Receive Your Polished Text