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we had a discussion vs a discussion was had

The phrases are both acceptable, but they would be used in separate contexts. 'We had a discussion' is more commonly used in everyday language to indicate that a discussion took place among a group of people. 'A discussion was had' is less common and sounds more formal or literary, emphasizing the occurrence of a discussion without specifying who was involved.
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Explained by Gregg
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Last updated: January 09, 2025 • 7493 views

we had a discussion

This phrase is correct and commonly used in everyday language.

This phrase is used to indicate that a discussion took place among a group of people. It is a simple and direct way to convey this information.

Examples:

  • We had a discussion about the project yesterday.
  • They had a discussion about the budget cuts.
  • I think we should have a discussion about our future plans.
  • Let's have a discussion about the best way to proceed.
  • Having a discussion can help us reach a decision.
  • Sep 14, 2024 ... We had a discussion on the ugliest skyscraper in New York, so now's the time to discuss the prettiest one! I'll go first, Brooklyn tower.
  • 2 days ago ... 428 likes, 5 comments - digahernandez on November 22, 2024: "We had a discussion with Larry Sparks about the Holy Spirit's power.
  • Jan 29, 2024 ... It's about time we had a discussion about Fraudenji. MEME. r ...
  • We had a discussion with Yael S. Copeland about her debut album, Mellow Submarine. " English. Auteur·ice : Paul Mougeot. 04/05/2023. We had a discussion ...
  • Jun 21, 2024 ... We had a discussion about such visitors to our shores at the J-1 pizza night. Again, please make sure to download the Sharktivity App.If you ...
  • Mar 16, 2011 ... We had a discussion about otters and other salt-water mammals. Using the preposition of there feels wrong to me. In a subheading on a paper.
  • Nov 16, 2024 ... Ok Jammers. We had a discussion about jamming during the day times during the winter. 2-4 pm. What day would work the best??
  • Nov 29, 2022 ... “And I remember in one of my classes we had a discussion about it, because we were like 'Oh, we're an all-female school, so what does this ...
  • Jan 12, 2007 ... Is it correct to say 'we had a discussion about something' Can one discuss 'about'? I thought it's 'talk about' or discuss on' a subject.

Alternatives:

  • We discussed the matter.
  • We talked about it.
  • We conversed on the topic.
  • We exchanged ideas.
  • We deliberated on the issue.

a discussion was had

This phrase is correct but less commonly used in everyday language.

This phrase is more formal or literary and emphasizes the occurrence of a discussion without specifying who was involved. It can be used to give a more detached or objective tone to the statement.

Examples:

  • A discussion was had on the matter, but no resolution was reached.
  • In the meeting, a discussion was had about the new policy.
  • After much debate, a discussion was had and a decision was made.
  • Throughout history, many discussions were had on this topic.
  • The issue was resolved after a discussion was had among the stakeholders.
  • Oct 15, 2024 ... 538 likes, 24 comments - itslololove on October 15, 2024: "Baby a discussion was HAD last week at The Grill hosted by @thewrap we got very ...
  • Apr 5, 2021 ... b)Discussion and possible action on Tennis Court Rentals. A discussion was had regarding the possibility of creating a policy regarding tennis ...
  • The Treasurer's report was approved. Conference Committee Assignments: A discussion was had regarding the current conference committee assignment and ...
  • Apr 10, 2019 ... A discussion was had on the costs associated with Police coverage at events held in town. Continued review of line items was had. There was ...
  • Apr 22, 2023 ... A discussion was had regarding the HAPS leases, dollars & admin fee earned report handed out by the management firm. As of November, 2022 ...
  • A discussion was had about district funding and its challenges. Different options are being looked at. Town Hall meetings have been conducted, and the ...
  • Aug 15, 2022 ... A discussion was had over whether to eliminate “wet” signatures. The majority of the committee favored continuance of “wet signatures” for a ...
  • Nov 16, 2023 ... Discussion: A discussion was had between the commission members and applicant. Matt. McDonald made a motion to approve Case #HZ-23-64 - 4513 ...
  • Aug 20, 2019 ... A discussion was had on which day of the week and how often they should meet and that they should have reports from these meetings for the ...
  • Feb 27, 2023 ... Discussion: A discussion was had on volunteer work being too subjective. Outcome: No CE for volunteer work. 9. EXECUTIVE SESSION. 10. IN THE ...

Alternatives:

  • A discussion took place.
  • A discussion occurred.
  • There was a discussion.
  • A discussion happened.
  • A discussion ensued.

Related Comparisons

held a meeting vs a meeting was held a training was held vs a training was given was a pleasure meeting you vs was pleasure meeting you was talking vs talked a question raised vs a question was raised

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