a friendly discussion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a friendly discussion" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a conversation that is pleasant and amicable, often implying a constructive exchange of ideas. Example: "We had a friendly discussion about our differing opinions on the project, and it helped us find common ground."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

Hassane Cissé, Douentza's mayor, said the MNLA had handed his town over to the jihadists after a friendly discussion.

The Guardian

In Washington state, prosecutors claimed that a friendly discussion of an anti-tax campaign on a radio show was a political donation that the campaigners should have declared.

The Economist

Nasdaq executives met with officials from OM Gruppen last week in New York for a "friendly discussion," people close to those talks said.

The New York Times

Judging from the outraged remarks lawmakers have been making about the News Corporation and its officers in raucous, angry sessions in Parliament the last few days, it is not likely to be a friendly discussion.

The New York Times

We arrived in Boston at 4 p.m., checked into the Taj Hotel and shortly thereafter we were at the bar for a friendly discussion that encompassed sports, politics, religion and finally, which college player has the coolest name: Rakeem Christmas (Syracuse) or God's Gift Achiuwa (St. John's).

Huffington Post

Remember that you don't need to win in a friendly discussion.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

They recently had a very friendly discussion not involving the caps, and he recently received a very nice letter from Winfield, so he believes their friendship is intact.

The New York Times - Sports

The play — which follows an initially friendly discussion between two sets of parents (in a gentrified Brooklyn neighborhood) about a fight between their sons — is a study of people who, in different ways, are uncomfortable in their skins, or at least in the social roles imposed on them.

The New York Times

Consider the following: Discussion: A friendly work discussion that talks about others keeps the references to other people general, friendly and supportive.

WikiHow

"This was a useful and friendly discussion," said Mullah Amruddin, a tall man in a dramatic turban.

The New York Times

The precise pace of the closing was left flexible in an accord reached after what Volker Heck, a spokesman for the major RWE energy company, called "a not very friendly discussion".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing sensitive topics, using the phrase "a friendly discussion" can help set a positive tone and encourage open communication.

Common error

Do not use "a friendly discussion" to downplay serious disputes or to misrepresent hostile exchanges. It is best to use the phrase when there is a genuine sense of goodwill and mutual respect.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a friendly discussion" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a type of interaction. As Ludwig AI explains, the phrase is usable in written English and describes a conversation that is pleasant and amicable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

30%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a friendly discussion" is a noun phrase used to describe a positive and cooperative exchange of ideas. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English, highlighting its role in characterizing conversations as pleasant and amicable. The phrase is most commonly found in news and media, wiki articles, and formal business settings. While generally neutral in register, context is key to avoid misrepresentation of events when the exchange is not in fact friendly. Alternatives such as ""an amicable conversation"" or ""a cordial exchange"" can be used to add nuance. Remember to use the phrase to emphasize mutual respect, not to downplay conflict.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an amicable conversation

Replaces "discussion" with "conversation" and "friendly" with "amicable", suggesting a more formal but still pleasant interaction.

a cordial exchange

"Cordial" implies warmth and politeness, highlighting the pleasant nature of the interaction.

a pleasant chat

Using "chat" instead of "discussion" suggests a more casual and informal exchange.

a good-natured debate

This phrase highlights the potential for differing viewpoints while maintaining a positive and respectful tone.

a civil discourse

"Civil discourse" emphasizes respect and reasoned argument, often in a formal setting.

a constructive dialogue

Focuses on the positive outcome and the building of understanding between parties.

an informal talk

Highlights the lack of formality, suggesting a relaxed and casual atmosphere.

a lighthearted conversation

Emphasizes the cheerful and non-serious nature of the interaction.

a collegial discussion

Implies a discussion among colleagues, characterized by mutual respect and cooperation.

a harmonious exchange

Highlights the agreement and lack of conflict during the interaction.

FAQs

What does "a friendly discussion" imply?

The phrase "a friendly discussion" suggests a conversation characterized by politeness, mutual respect, and a non-confrontational exchange of ideas. It implies a cooperative atmosphere where participants are open to hearing different perspectives.

When is it appropriate to use the term "a friendly discussion"?

Use "a friendly discussion" when describing a conversation where the participants are amiable and there is no animosity. It's suitable when the tone is light, respectful, and geared towards mutual understanding rather than argument.

What are some alternatives to "a friendly discussion"?

You can use alternatives like "an amicable conversation", "a cordial exchange", or "a pleasant chat" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

How does "a friendly discussion" differ from a debate or argument?

While a debate or argument often involves opposing viewpoints and attempts to persuade, "a friendly discussion" focuses on exchanging ideas in a respectful manner without necessarily trying to win over the other party. The emphasis is on understanding and finding common ground.