a direct discussion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a direct discussion" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a conversation or dialogue that is straightforward and to the point, without any ambiguity or indirectness. Example: "We need to have a direct discussion about the project's challenges to find effective solutions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

Cuban music tends to involve a direct discussion: between voice and drums, between voice and chorus, between horn sections.

The New York Times - Arts

Mr. Wolfson said debate about free speech, anonymity and retaliation was a worrisome distraction from a direct discussion of the meaning of marriage.

The New York Times

As a result, activists worked to expose the link between the explicit racial hierarchies espoused by Nazis and the more submerged narrative of white supremacy — a narrative ingrained in Confederate monuments — that exalted Southern "heritage" while avoiding a direct discussion of slavery.

The Washington Post

(Block (1981) contains a direct discussion of The Turing Test in this context).

SEP

Where the investigation requested is considered inappropriate or where a more sophisticated but costly examination is preferred a direct discussion between the primary care physician and the clinical radiologist is of great importance.

Insights into Imaging

Rubin tends to engage with these ideas of these individuals in a direct discussion, but he rarely challenges them on their views.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

His memoir, One Day I Will Write About This Place, which won a commercially powerful mention from Oprah Winfrey, shied away from any direct discussion of his sexual orientation.

The Guardian

In his SOTU address President Obama steered clear of any direct discussion of race.

Huffington Post

"Now we know we have to wait for a more direct discussion of protections under Lawrence".

The New York Times

Although a less direct discussion of the issue, the Andrade decision is likely to prove the more important of the court's two rulings because it is a significant and broadly applicable interpretation of the current habeas corpus statute, a 1996 law called the Antiterrorism and Effective Death Penalty Act that has caused wide confusion in the federal courts.

The New York Times

As the creative approach for the campaign took shape in the spring, Ms. Baird said, "we did give some thought" to a more direct discussion of player misbehavior, but the final decision was to have team members "talk about their families and themselves" as an alternate way to make the point about "the character of our players".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a direct discussion" when you want to emphasize clarity and straightforwardness in a conversation. It's suitable for situations where honesty and openness are important.

Common error

While "a direct discussion" implies clarity, avoid using overly complex or technical language within the discussion itself. Keep the language accessible to all participants to ensure effective communication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a direct discussion" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It refers to a specific instance or type of conversation characterized by its straightforward and unambiguous nature. As Ludwig AI points out, this type of dialogue promotes clarity and honesty.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

17%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a direct discussion" is a noun phrase denoting a conversation characterized by clarity and honesty. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and appropriateness in various contexts. While not exceedingly common, it appears across diverse sources, including news media, scientific publications, and formal business communications. For alternative expressions, consider options like "a frank exchange" or "a straightforward conversation". When using this phrase, prioritize clarity and avoid unnecessary jargon to ensure effective communication. The phrase carries a neutral register, suitable for both professional and casual settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a straightforward conversation

This focuses on the clarity and simplicity of the dialogue.

a candid conversation

Similar to 'frank exchange', this stresses the honesty and sincerity of the discussion.

a frank exchange

This alternative emphasizes honesty and openness in the conversation.

a forthright discussion

Emphasizes directness and honesty, similar to 'frank exchange' and 'candid conversation'.

an open dialogue

This alternative highlights the inclusivity and transparency of the discussion.

a sincere consultation

Highlights the genuine intent behind the discussion and the value placed on input.

a no-holds-barred discussion

Implies that participants are free to express their opinions without restrictions.

a plain-spoken debate

This alternative highlights clarity in the debate.

a transparent deliberation

This emphasizes clarity and visibility in the decision-making process.

a blunt exchange

Focuses on the directness, potentially to the point of being perceived as insensitive.

FAQs

How can I use "a direct discussion" in a sentence?

You can use "a direct discussion" to describe a conversation that is straightforward and honest, for example: "We need to have "a direct discussion" about the budget."

What's a good alternative to "a direct discussion"?

Alternatives include "a frank exchange", "a straightforward conversation", or "an open dialogue" depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use "a direct discussion"?

It's appropriate when you want to emphasize honesty, clarity, and a lack of ambiguity in a conversation, particularly when addressing important or sensitive topics.

What is the difference between "a direct discussion" and "an indirect discussion"?

"A direct discussion" focuses on being clear and straightforward, while "an indirect discussion" involves hinting or implying without being explicit. The choice depends on the situation and the desired level of tact or diplomacy.