Interview vs. Discussion: What's the Difference?
Edited by Sumera Saeed || By Sawaira Riaz || Updated on October 3, 2023
An "Interview" is a formal meeting where one person assesses or questions another, while a "Discussion" is an exchange of ideas between parties.
Key Differences
The term "Interview" typically denotes a more formal, structured interaction, often with a specific purpose or goal in mind. Interviews often take place in professional settings, such as job applications, where a candidate is assessed based on their responses. Another context for interviews is the media, where personalities or experts are questioned about specific topics. In interviews, there's often an interviewer and interviewee dynamic, emphasizing a certain level of formality and structure.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023
In contrast, a "Discussion" is a more generalized term that indicates an exchange of views, ideas, or information between two or more individuals. Discussions can be formal or informal, ranging from casual conversations among friends to structured debates or conferences. The hallmark of a discussion is the open exchange of ideas, where participants converse to share knowledge, solve problems, or deliberate on subjects.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023
It's worth noting that while all interviews involve some form of discussion, not all discussions qualify as interviews. An interview is a subset of discussions characterized by its structured nature and specific objectives. For instance, a journalist might have a discussion with a colleague about how to approach a story but will conduct an interview with a source to gather information for that story.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023
Lastly, the tone and expectations set interviews and discussions apart. While an interview often has predefined questions and expects particular answers, a discussion is more free-flowing, allowing for spontaneous thoughts and diverse viewpoints.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023
Comparison Chart
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Objective
Assessment, gathering specific information
Exchange of ideas, problem-solving
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023
Interview and Discussion Definitions
Interview
A formal meeting where questions are asked to assess an individual.
She felt confident after her job interview.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 03, 2023
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Discussion
A discourse on a specific subject matter.
The discussion on climate change was enlightening.
Janet White
Oct 03, 2023
Interview
A structured interrogation for research purposes.
The researcher conducted several interviews for his thesis.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023
Discussion
The process of debating or analyzing a topic in detail.
The book club's discussion about the novel was engaging.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 03, 2023
Interview
The act of assessing a candidate for a specific role or position.
The manager will interview ten candidates today.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023
Discussion
The act of deliberating on a particular topic.
The committee's discussion led to a unanimous decision.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 03, 2023
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Interview
A media process where personalities are questioned about specific topics.
The celebrity's interview was broadcasted nationwide.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023
Interview
A means to gather detailed information from a source.
The journalist set up an interview with the whistleblower.
Harlon Moss
Oct 03, 2023
Interview
A formal meeting in person, especially one arranged for the assessment of the qualifications of an applicant.
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 25, 2022
Discussion
Conversation or debate concerning a particular topic.
There was then a long discussion of whether to capitalize words like "east".
This topic is not open to discussion.
My discussion with the professor was very enlightening.
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 25, 2022
Interview
A conversation, such as one conducted by a reporter, in which facts or statements are elicited from another.
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 25, 2022
Discussion
Text giving further detail on a subject.
Under each heading, you will find a discussion.
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 25, 2022
Discussion
The act or process of discussing by breaking up, or dispersing, as a tumor, or the like.
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 25, 2022
Discussion
The act of discussing or exchanging reasons; examination by argument; debate; disputation; agitation.
The liberty of discussion is the great safeguard of all other liberties.
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 25, 2022
Discussion
An extended communication (often interactive) dealing with some particular topic;
The book contains an excellent discussion of modal logic
His treatment of the race question is badly biased
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 25, 2022
Interview
(obsolete) An official face-to-face meeting of monarchs or other important figures.
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 25, 2022
Discussion
An exchange of views on some topic;
We had a good discussion
We had a word or two about it
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 25, 2022
Interview
Any face-to-face meeting, especially of an official or adversarial nature.
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 25, 2022
Discussion
An exchange of views or ideas between individuals.
They had a lengthy discussion about politics.
Harlon Moss
Oct 03, 2023
Interview
A conversation in person (or, by extension, over the telephone, Internet etc.) between a journalist and someone whose opinion or statements he or she wishes to record for publication, broadcast etc.
The reporter gave the witness an interview.
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 25, 2022
Discussion
A dialogue focused on problem-solving.
The team's discussion resulted in innovative solutions.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 03, 2023
Interview
A formal meeting, in person, for the assessment of a candidate or applicant.
It was a dreadful interview; I have no hope of getting the job.
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 25, 2022
Interview
(transitive) To ask questions of (somebody); to have an interview.
He interviewed the witness.
The witness was interviewed.
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 25, 2022
Interview
A mutual sight or view; a meeting face to face; usually, a formal or official meeting for consultation; a conference; as, the secretary had an interview with the President.
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 25, 2022
Interview
A conversation, or questioning, for the purpose of eliciting information for publication; the published statement so elicited.
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 25, 2022
Interview
To have an interview with; to question or converse with, especially for the purpose of obtaining information for publication.
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 25, 2022
Interview
The questioning of a person (or a conversation in which information is elicited); often conducted by journalists;
My interviews with teen-agers revealed a weakening of religious bonds
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 25, 2022
Interview
A conference (usually with someone important);
He had a consultation with the judge
He requested an audience with the king
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 25, 2022
Interview
Discuss formally with (somebody) for the purpose of an evaluation;
We interviewed the job candidates
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 25, 2022
Interview
Go for an interview in the hope of being hired;
The job candidate interviewed everywhere
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 25, 2022
FAQs
Can discussions occur between just two people?
Absolutely, a discussion can happen between two or more individuals.
Harlon Moss
Oct 03, 2023
Who typically conducts an interview?
An interviewer, who might be an employer, journalist, or researcher, usually conducts the interview.
Janet White
Oct 03, 2023
Can a discussion have a formal setting?
Yes, discussions can be both formal, like in conferences, and informal, like casual chats.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023
What's the main objective of an interview?
Interviews aim to assess, gather specific information, or understand a perspective.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023
Are interviews always face-to-face?
No, interviews can be conducted in-person, over the phone, or through digital platforms.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 03, 2023
What's the main focus of a discussion?
Discussions focus on exchanging ideas, views, or solving problems.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 03, 2023
Is a debate considered a discussion?
Yes, a debate is a type of structured discussion.
Harlon Moss
Oct 03, 2023
Is feedback after a task considered an interview?
Not typically. Such feedback sessions are more of a discussion.
Sara Rehman
Oct 03, 2023
Are all job-related conversations interviews?
No, only formal assessments or questionings are considered interviews. Casual chats are discussions.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023
Can an interview be casual?
While interviews are generally formal, they can occasionally be semi-formal, but still structured.
Harlon Moss
Oct 03, 2023
Do interviews always involve professionals?
No, interviews can be conducted in various settings, including personal or academic.
Janet White
Oct 03, 2023
What differentiates a chat from a discussion?
A chat is casual, while a discussion often has a specific topic or focus.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023
Is an argument considered a discussion?
Yes, though it's a more confrontational form of discussion.
Sara Rehman
Oct 03, 2023
Can discussions have outcomes?
Certainly, many discussions aim for understanding, consensus, or problem-solving.
Harlon Moss
Oct 03, 2023
Are round-table talks interviews?
No, they are more akin to discussions, with multiple people exchanging ideas.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023
Do all interviews have a set list of questions?
Often, yes, but some interviews might be more open-ended.
Sara Rehman
Oct 03, 2023
Can a discussion lead to a decision?
Yes, many discussions aim to reach a consensus or decision.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023
Can interviews be unplanned?
While most are scheduled, impromptu interviews can also occur, especially in media settings.
Sara Rehman
Oct 03, 2023
Are panel interviews a form of discussion?
They combine elements of both, with structured questioning in a discussion format.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 03, 2023
Is an interrogation an interview?
It's a form of interview, but it's more forceful and is used to gather information, often by law enforcement.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sawaira RiazSawaira is a dedicated content editor at difference.wiki, where she meticulously refines articles to ensure clarity and accuracy. With a keen eye for detail, she upholds the site's commitment to delivering insightful and precise content.
Edited by
Sumera SaeedSumera is an experienced content writer and editor with a niche in comparative analysis. At Diffeence Wiki, she crafts clear and unbiased comparisons to guide readers in making informed decisions. With a dedication to thorough research and quality, Sumera's work stands out in the digital realm. Off the clock, she enjoys reading and exploring diverse cultures.
