According to the English dictionaries,
to engage in
, as an intransitive verb, means to begin an activity
(Merriam-Webster), which is sensible for "to engage in the discussion with someone on some topic".
However, a search in books.google.com
suggests many authors use the following expression engage the discussion
.
For example, "To engage the discussion about the impact of such a pervasive epidemic as HIV/AIDS from a perspective ..." https://books.google.com/books?isbn=1134656556
I cannot find an appropriate definition of this usage (maybe except definition 7? see below), as most examples suggest the object should be a person, not a thing
So what is "to engage the discussion" ? Or is it a misuse of the verb to engage
(Merriam-Webster)
engage, transitive verb
1 : to offer (something, such as one's life or word) as backing to a cause or aim : to expose to risk for the attainment or support of some end
2 : to attract and hold by influence or power
: to interlock with : mesh; also : to cause (mechanical parts) to mesh3 : to bind (someone, such as oneself) to do something; especially : to bind by a pledge to marry
4 a : to provide occupation for : involve
b : to arrange to obtain the use or services of : hire5 a : to hold the attention of : engross
b : to induce to participate6 a : to enter into contest or battle with
b : to bring together or interlock (weapons)7 : to deal with especially at length