a positive discussion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a positive discussion" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a conversation or dialogue in which two or more people work together to identify solutions and understand the perspectives of each other. For example, "We had a positive discussion over dinner and were able to come to a mutual agreement."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

"However after a positive discussion there, he has indicated his desire to remain in his position at Kidderminster Harriers and no longer pursue any alternative options".

BBC

There was also a positive discussion of drugs in development that are not sold by InterMune.

The New York Times

Each night will have a positive discussion of Governor Bush's proposals".

The New York Times

"It was a positive discussion; it seemed productive to stay at it," Manfred said.

The New York Times - Sports

"Whether it will be 40 or 48, it was a positive discussion.

The Guardian - Sport

"Each night will have a positive discussion of Governor Bush's proposals," said Karen P. Hughes, Mr. Bush's communications director.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

Its board met on Wednesday to discuss the results of a public consultation and held what an Ipso spokesperson called "a very positive discussion" about its results.

The Guardian

Mr. Coleman, who some in Minnesota were already speculating might run for governor in 2010 (for now, he would not comment) described the call as "a very personal discussion, a very positive discussion".

The New York Times

Last night, Mr. O'Reilly said on his TV show that Media Matters had distorted "a very positive discussion on race," an opinion echoed by Mr. Williams.

The New York Times

Hopefully, the forthcoming public meetings on the Parking Management Plan will provide a more positive discussion of parking issues, not "eyeing" an opportunity for new business taxes.

Los Angeles Times

Mr. Bush and Crown Prince Abdullah "had a very positive discussion on recent cooperation in the war on terrorism," said Allen Abney, a spokesman for Mr. Bush.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a positive discussion" to set a collaborative tone in reports or updates, emphasizing mutual understanding and shared objectives.

Common error

Avoid using "a positive discussion" when the situation is complex or requires critical analysis. While positive, it should not overshadow necessary critical feedback or hide underlying challenges.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a positive discussion" functions as a noun phrase, where 'positive' modifies 'discussion'. It generally acts as the subject or object of a sentence, describing the nature of an interaction. As seen in Ludwig, it highlights a constructive exchange.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a positive discussion" is a commonly used phrase to describe a constructive and beneficial conversation. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and suitability for various contexts, particularly in News & Media and Academic settings. While versatile, it's important to ensure the phrase accurately reflects the nature of the discussion, avoiding its use when a more critical or nuanced description is required. Consider alternatives like "constructive dialogue" or "fruitful conversation" for subtle variations in meaning. Overall, "a positive discussion" serves as a valuable tool for highlighting progress and fostering a sense of optimism in communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

A constructive dialogue

Focuses on the building aspect of the conversation.

A fruitful conversation

Emphasizes the beneficial outcome of the discussion.

A productive exchange

Highlights the efficient and valuable nature of the interaction.

A beneficial discourse

Underscores the advantageous aspect of the conversation.

A helpful exchange of ideas

Emphasizes the exchange of ideas rather than just a discussion.

An upbeat conversation

Highlights the optimistic tone of the discussion.

A successful deliberation

Implies a well-managed and effective discussion.

A collaborative conversation

Stresses the cooperative nature of the dialogue.

A valuable interaction

Highlights the worth and significance of the exchange.

An encouraging discussion

Focuses on the motivational and supportive aspects of the exchange.

FAQs

What can I say instead of "a positive discussion"?

You can use alternatives like "constructive dialogue", "fruitful conversation", or "productive exchange" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

How to use "a positive discussion" in a sentence?

You can use "a positive discussion" to describe a conversation where participants are working together constructively. For example: "The team had a positive discussion about the project's challenges and identified several potential solutions."

What's the difference between "a positive discussion" and "a debate"?

"A positive discussion" implies a collaborative exchange aimed at finding common ground, while "a debate" often involves opposing viewpoints and the attempt to persuade others to accept a particular position.

Is "a very positive discussion" more emphatic than "a positive discussion"?

Yes, adding "very" emphasizes the positive nature of the discussion, suggesting it was particularly productive or encouraging. See also "a very positive discussion".