a lengthy conversation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a lengthy conversation" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a discussion that takes a considerable amount of time, often involving detailed or in-depth topics. Example: "After a lengthy conversation about our project goals, we finally reached a consensus on the next steps."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Over a year ago, after a lengthy conversation, I agreed to an interview with Todd Darling on the condition that he not use my remarks to glorify the Gill Tract occupiers.

Huffington Post

After a lengthy conversation, she suggested getting together again.

The New York Times - Style

Yet, after a lengthy conversation with Burt, the referee, Anthony Taylor, overruled him.

The Guardian - Sport

He then appeared to conduct a lengthy conversation with an empty chair.

The Guardian - Film

When did you last see a film with a lengthy conversation at its heart?

The New Yorker

We did have a lengthy conversation on how the book should be shaped".

The New York Times - Books

No one would mistake these systems for a human — at least not after a lengthy conversation.

The New York Times - Tech

I wouldn't want to have a lengthy conversation on this handset, though.

MIT Technology Review

Five billionaires joined half a dozen liberal leaders in a lengthy conversation about the future of progressive politics in America.

The New Yorker

Corker said that during a lengthy conversation, the president argued that the senator's bill would limit Trump's negotiating authority.

The Washington Post

Filkins's interpreter had just finished a lengthy conversation with the sheikh in Arabic, which Filkins doesn't speak.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the audience and context. While "a lengthy conversation" is generally acceptable, more formal alternatives like "an extended discussion" might be suitable for academic or professional settings.

Common error

Avoid using "a lengthy conversation" in very informal contexts where simpler terms like "a long chat" would be more appropriate. Choosing a more informal term makes the context more relatable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a lengthy conversation" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It acts as the subject or object in a sentence, describing an event involving communication. Ludwig AI's analysis confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Academia

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a lengthy conversation" is a versatile phrase that describes a discussion of considerable duration. Ludwig AI confirms it's grammatically correct and widely used, especially in news and media. While it can be used in both formal and informal contexts, be mindful of your audience. Alternatives like "an extended discussion" may be more suitable for very formal settings. Remember to consider the specific nuance you want to convey when choosing between "a lengthy conversation" and its alternatives, such as focusing on the depth of discussion or the time involved.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a long conversation

Slightly less formal and emphasizes duration.

an extended discussion

More formal and emphasizes the exchange of ideas.

a protracted dialogue

Very formal and suggests a deliberate, possibly difficult, exchange.

a time-consuming conversation

Focuses on the investment of time.

a drawn-out conversation

Emphasizes the length and potential tediousness.

a prolonged exchange

Highlights the back-and-forth nature of the discussion and its duration.

a comprehensive discussion

Emphasizes the thoroughness of the conversation.

a detailed discussion

Highlights the level of specifics and information that are discussed.

an in-depth conversation

Highlights the depth and detail involved in the conversation.

a substantive discussion

Suggests a conversation of significant importance.

FAQs

How can I use "a lengthy conversation" in a sentence?

You can use "a lengthy conversation" to describe a discussion that took a significant amount of time. For example: "After "a lengthy conversation on" the matter, we reached an agreement."

What are some alternatives to "a lengthy conversation"?

Some alternatives include "a long conversation", "an extended discussion", or "a protracted dialogue", depending on the level of formality you want to convey.

What is the difference between "a lengthy conversation" and "a brief chat"?

"A lengthy conversation" implies a significant time commitment and potentially a deeper level of discussion, whereas "a brief chat" suggests a short, casual exchange.

Is "a lengthy conversation" suitable for formal writing?

Yes, "a lengthy conversation" is generally suitable for formal writing, but in some academic or professional settings, alternatives like "an extended discussion" might be preferred for an even more polished tone.