a line of discourse

USAGE SUMMARY

"a line of discourse" is a valid and usable phrase in written English.
It refers to a specific topic or subject being discussed or analyzed in a conversation, speech, or written piece. Example: During the debate, the candidates each presented a different line of discourse on the issue of immigration.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

For me, a sensible, rational debate would probably start by ruling out white supremacy as a legitimate line of discourse.

Vice

It occurred to me that in time Emily inevitably would learn to savor the literary critic's pleasure in tiered discourse — a line of analysis which continually shifts from the puppets on the stage to the person manipulating their strings.

The New Yorker

Gen. Michael Hayden, a former CIA director in the George W. Bush administration, warned that the "line of discourse has shifted" in the United States in worrying fashion.

The Washington Post

For the good of the city, the mayor needs to put aside this inflammatory line of discourse and wait for the Manhattan district attorney to complete his investigation.

The New York Times

We detail only the arguments for the functions (u^{mathfrak{d}_{p}}) since the estimates for the forcing terms (f^{mathfrak{d}_{p}}) follow the same line of discourse as below with the help of the estimates (157) instead of (166).

Advances in Difference Equations

Such a direct and argumentative style can rub some people the wrong way or intimidate them, but Westendorp explains that his intent is to stimulate intellectual discourse and sharpen a line of reasoning.

Science Magazine

The WSJ petition crossed a bright line of civil discourse by the degree of misrepresentation of Bill's views.

The New York Times

This view of the panopticon has opened up some interesting lines of discourse on the encroaching methods of control and surveillance in contemporary liberal societies (Brunon-Ernst 2012).

SEP

Yet without any tangible lines of discourse between protesting aboriginals and the PMO's office, Harper's policies will continue to be viewed as paternalistic and divisive, regardless of their effectiveness, causing continued alienation on reserves.

Vice

Smoking was one of the dominant lines of discourse across the sample of youth's narratives of cancer and cancer prevention.

BMC Public Health

Across the sample, smoking was one of the dominant lines of discourse in the youth's narratives of cancer and cancer prevention.

BMC Public Health

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a line of discourse", ensure the context clearly defines the specific subject or topic being discussed. This helps maintain clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "a line of discourse" when a more specific term like "argument", "discussion", or "theory" would provide greater precision and clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a line of discourse" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies a specific direction or focus within a conversation, text, or analysis. Although Ludwig AI confirms its validity, the frequency of examples is low.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

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Less common in

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a line of discourse" is a grammatically sound phrase used to denote a specific topic or subject within a conversation or analysis. While Ludwig AI validates its usage, the term's relatively low frequency suggests it's not as common as simpler alternatives. It's generally appropriate for neutral to formal contexts, such as academic writing or journalistic reporting. Remember to use the phrase when you need to specifically define the focus of a discussion or analysis, ensuring the context is clear and specific.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a train of thought

Emphasizes the sequential nature of thinking or argumentation, similar to a discourse.

a course of discussion

Focuses on the direction or path that a discussion takes.

a mode of expression

Highlights the style or manner in which something is communicated.

a form of communication

Broadens the scope to any method of conveying information.

a style of rhetoric

Pinpoints the specific rhetorical approach used in the discourse.

a method of argumentation

Emphasizes the logical structure and reasoning within the discourse.

a subject under discussion

Highlights the topic being talked about.

a point of view

Focuses on a particular perspective or opinion presented.

an area of conversation

Describes a specific topic that is being discussed.

a topic of debate

Highlights the controversial nature of the discourse.

FAQs

How can I use "a line of discourse" in a sentence?

You can use "a line of discourse" to refer to a particular subject or topic being discussed or analyzed. For example, "The politician presented a clear "line of discourse" on economic reform".

What can I say instead of "a line of discourse"?

You can use alternatives like "train of thought", "course of discussion", or "mode of expression" depending on the context.

Is "a line of discourse" formal or informal?

"A line of discourse" is generally considered a neutral to formal expression, suitable for academic, professional, or journalistic contexts. In informal settings, simpler terms like "topic" or "subject" might be more appropriate.

What is the difference between "a line of discourse" and "a line of argument"?

"A line of discourse" refers to the overall subject or topic being discussed, while "a line of argument" refers specifically to the logical reasoning and evidence presented to support a particular claim or point of view.